The contemporary photography platform ISSP continues its series of photowalks designed specifically for international students studying at universities in Riga. The photowalks are an invitation to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods in a creative way, discover lesser-known places, meet local people, and connect with fellow participants.

Registration is now open for Photo walk No. 7 – Ziepniekkalns with Gundega Strauberga

🗓️ Saturday, October 17, 14:00 – 18:30
📍 Meeting point – Ēbelmuiža park

In this photowalk, we invite you to discover one of Riga’s most remote Soviet-era “sleeping districts,” Ziepniekkalns, together with artist and photographer Gundega Strauberga and local residents.

Gundega will share her childhood memories of the district, and during the walk we will be joined by a poet Alexander Zapolj and other present day inhabitants, who will introduce us to their favorite spots. We will explore urban contrasts and everyday environments, discover Riga’s longest apartment building (aka the “Chinese wall”), and might even be able to experience one of the districts’ block buildings from inside! 

As usual, the walk will conclude with sharing photographs, impressions, and reflections over a cup of tea.

During the photowalk, participants will be encouraged to capture their perspective of the neighborhood through photographs and short notes, which will later be used in a creative zine workshops and a collaboratively created exhibition and publication.

Why join?

• Discover Riga’s neighborhoods in a creative, non-traditional way;
• Get to know top Latvian photographers, local community members, unique projects and lesser-known places;
• Practice street and documentary photography in natural light;
• Meet and connect with new people through shared exploration;
• Take part in a community arts project and a future exhibition.

The project is supported by the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund and Latvian State budget, promoting innovative and inclusive approaches to integration of third countries’ citizens. According to the programme objectives, the main audience is students from outside the EU. Latvians who wish to meet Riga newcomers are welcome to join! 

The photowalks are open to students of all disciplines; no prior photography experience is required.

– Bring a digital camera or phone with a camera.
– Photo walk language: English
– Participation is free of charge.

– Spots are limited to 20 – please REGISTER HERE.
Registered participants will receive detailed information about the event by email.

In case of questions, contact [email protected]