Discovering Drifts Gallery at Art Rotterdam 2025

Thank you to a dear friend Danielle, I had the pleasure to be a part of a special visit to Art Rotterdam 2025. It’s a wonderful experience to discover this vibrant art fair, presenting opportunities to explore emerging voices and innovative galleries. Among them to my surprise was Drifts Gallery from Vilnius, Lithuania. It stood out to me of course, due to my own origins; however, upon a more attentive exploration, it was the unique artistic dialogue cultivated by its founder, Jolanta Laurent that was a very interesting opportunity to learn more about the gallery and the artists being presented.

I have learned that Drifts Gallery opened in December 2022 near the historic Wroblewski Library, an area rich with artistic academic traditions and culture. The choice of location was intentional; Jolanta sought a space that felt both historical and accessible, a meeting point for artists, viewers, and collectors. The gallery's name is inspired by Kate Zambreno’s novel “Drifts”, celebrating the flowing nature of life and art, echoing Jolanta's vision of capturing fragments of everyday experiences through contemporary art. At Art Rotterdam 2025, Drifts Gallery showcases the works of two notable artists - Morta Jonynaitė and Vytenis Burokas- offering fairgoers a taste of Lithuania’s artistic prowess. Morta Jonynaitė, utilizes traditional textile techniques to weave intricate installations that facilitate tactile exploration of relationships and experiences. Her work not only presents visual beauty but also crafts intimate environments that connect participants, reflecting the nuances of interaction and perception. In contrast, Vytenis Burokas, challenges conventional artistic boundaries by merging diverse disciplines to investigate cultural influences through his craft. His ongoing explorations embody a unique synthesis of performance, installation, and drawing while delving deep into themes of identity and knowledge fermentation. Known for his vibrant narratives and alter egos, Burokas sparks conversations about the intertwining of microorganisms and human experiences within his art.

Both artists exemplify the ethos of Drifts Gallery, where the synergy of idea and form is paramount. Jolanta’s curatorial vision prioritizes dynamic dialogue among artists, allowing for expansive exploration beyond traditional boundaries of media and concept. This flexible approach mirrors Vilnius’ vibrant art scene, rich with initiatives and a strong local identity yet open to international influences.

As Drifts Gallery makes its mark at Art Rotterdam 2025, it symbolizes the transformative power of art in turbulent times. Jolanta’s commitment to sustainability and the exploration of new technologies highlights the evolving landscape of contemporary art. With hands stretched out toward international dialogue as well as local recognition, Drifts Gallery is set to drift towards uncharted territories of creativity and engagement. I was super excited to not only get a peek into innovative works by talented Lithuanian artists but also an invitation to engage deeply with the interwoven narratives of art in our time. Already looking forward to visit the gallery in person, thanks to Jolantas invitation and learning more about how she is enriching the global art community with fresh perspectives and vibrant dialogues.

Learn more about the gallery here.