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2018-05-10 Back to list

The Concrete Secrets of Kaunas with CELSIUS 273

A new concrete jewellery collection created and made in Kaunas invites to take a fresh look at the modernist architecture in Kaunas and discover its connection with your inner self.

A new concrete jewellery collection created and made in Kaunas invites to take a fresh look at the modernist architecture in Kaunas and discover its connection with your inner self.

Created by Gerda Liudvinavičiūtė, the mastermind behind CELSIUS 273 brand, and architect Ligita Ažukaitė-Lileikė, “The Concrete City” will be showcased in “Nyčės ūsai”, one of our favourite galleries in town. You’re welcome to explore the concrete aesthetics – and buy your favourite piece or two! – between May 19th and June 9th. Of course, the collection will also be available online.

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Hi there! Photo from Gerda's personal archive

“The seven objects that inspired our collection are already well-known landmarks of Kaunas, but we aimed to see the modernist architecture from a new angle”, explains Gerda. “It’s interesting to explore how relevant the buildings are not only regarding cultural heritage but also as contemporary art pieces – what does “modernity” mean today and how has the perception of Kaunas changed since the 1920s?”, she asks.

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The creator of CELSIUS 273, a brand already discovered and praised by local fashionistas, explains she and the architect tried to avoid any connection with the word “minimalism”. The new collection is infused with the national style, which itself was derived from historical symbols, modest decorative elements and geometrical forms by architects of the interwar period. All of the above and sincere love for Kaunas hints “The Concrete City” is a little bit more than just jewellery.

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So, what about the city? We couldn’t help but find out what Gerda’s favourite places in Kaunas are, so we asked her for a 24-hour itinerary. Here it is, a kaunastic day full of culture, approved by CELSIUS 273:

“I’d suggest you visit the Yard gallery which never fails to surprise both the residents of Kaunas and the tourists. I can’t resist the aesthetics of M. Žilinskas gallery of art – both the architecture and the exhibitions make it an essential stop in my itinerary.

Next, it’s the Soboras church – especially the stairs! I love sitting on them and watching the sun go down, while Laisvės alėja becomes emptier and emptier.

It’s always inspiring to take a walk by Nemunas river towards the Old Town and watch the towers on the horizon getting closer. The Old Town itself is the most magical in the early hours when the locals are on their way to work. Get a coffee!

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The Owls’ Hill in Žaliakalnis is another one of my favourites. When going down the hill again, visit the St. Nicholas church.

Oh, and the Galaunės house in Žaliakalnis! The atmosphere in the memorial museum is as vivid as it was 80 years ago.

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For people watching and pleasant evening vibes, I recommend bars like “Kultūra”, “Movido” and “O kodėl ne?”.

Of course, I must mention “Nyčės ūsai”, a gallery that makes you feel at home. Elzė, the owner, can make a great cup of coffee and always has a story to tell.”

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Visit “The Concrete City” in “Nyčės ūsai” or wait until it appears at the CELSIUS 273 e-shop.

All photos by CELSIUS 273. 

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