Lithuanian Art Centre TARTLE

Tartle, one of Vilnius’ cultural hotspots, is home to the Tartle Lithuanian Art Centre in the Užupis district. Here, the vast private collection of the Lithuanian Art Foundation, assembled by Rolandas Valiūnas in collaboration with partners of the Ellex Valiunas law firm, is properly preserved and exhibited. The Art Centre is located on the Vilnelė River escarpment, overlooking the Old Town of Vilnius.

Due to the rugged terrain, the site was developed rather late – only in the late 19th century. The large yellow brick building that forms the perimeter of the street can be clearly identified, as it is a brick building from this period with neo-Gothic features that have survived to this day.

The reconstruction was based on historical material, preserving the building’s authentic layout and style, while new volumes of contemporary architecture were added to the courtyard. These new buildings are almost invisible from the street side, blending subtly into the old architectural composition. The architect has managed to preserve the original perimeter and materiality of Užupis Street. Upon entering the courtyard, visitors are greeted by a sculpture park and volumes with a modern expression, reflecting the ideas of contemporary art, which are intertwined in the interior spaces.