Longtime Director of Veidenbaums Museum “Kalāči” Jānis Krieviņš Passes Away

Jānis Krieviņš, the long-time director of the Eduards Veidenbaums Museum “Kalāči”, passed away yesterday at the age of 86, the museum announced on Facebook.

Born on July 11, 1940, Krieviņš dedicated 27 years to leading the museum, during which he attracted various significant and creative individuals and events, promoting the legacy of the poet Veidenbaums.

Under his leadership, the former “Kalāči” barn-stable was restored and transformed into an exhibition hall. He also initiated the “Philosophers’ Talks” (Filozofu talkas), organized art exhibitions, and published a collection of Veidenbaums’ poetry.

In his later years, Krieviņš actively participated in youth-led activities, offered his opinions, shared his experience, and was a welcome guest at any event. The museum staff noted that his thoughts stood out for their directness, irony, unique way of thinking, and conciseness.

“With Jānis Krieviņš, a significant and legendary era of the ‘Kalāči’ museum comes to an end, which will remain in many people’s memories as a special event or part of life, thanks to his presence and unique charisma,” the museum’s post stated.