What makes a good souvenir?

It has to be something that you want to take with you

Why do we need souvenirs?

To recall the feelings of joy, discovering and engagement that you get when you first encounter a place or event.

What are the latest trends in souvenirs? And is there a fashion for souvenirs?

There probably is! There are “classic” souvenirs and the kind that change in line with the public’s preferences both thematically, and from a practical perspective. Whereas 20 years ago, hardly anybody travelled about with a bottle of water, these days they’ve become a necessity, and even a form of self-expression.

 Are you one of those people who collects souvenirs?

Honestly speaking – no, but I do bring back items from my travels that I genuinely associate with that moment and presence – it could be a sea-polished pebble or piece of wood, a delicious drink or food item, or jewellery! Yeah, varies knick-knacks! But these are not classic souvenirs!

Should souvenirs be functional and able to be put to good use? Or should they be beautiful and of no practical use?

They can be quite impractical, but also beautiful and practical. Things we use on a daily basis, like a pencil and block of paper, which can be kept “close at hand” and that will serve as a reminder of where you’ve been, what you’ve seen and felt.

I don’t how appropriate it is for me to ask this question right now, because you’re currently working on creating a line of souvenirs for Turaida Museum Reserve… Nevertheless – which are the three best souvenirs that the Turaida Museum should definitely have?

The top 3… Yes, that’s a difficult question that’s hard to answer immediately. They are definitely items that showcase the value of this place, and are a source of joy. Right now, I can’t define a precise form or content for them, because things can be multi-faceted! A good souvenir should be desirable and characteristic of its place of origin. It should evoke the emotions brought to mind by a visit to this place, and the kind that will still be able to arouse pleasant memories and feelings in five years’ time or longer.

I’ve thought about the associations that form within me, discovering and visiting this place repeatedly. It is multi-layered – relating Latvia’s history from its origins through to the present day, as well as an extremely colourful and unique part of our country’s landscape in the ancient Gauja valley. I’d like to highlight Turaida to a greater extent and accent it as a gemstone in itself. So that it’s more than a mere “throwaway postcard” from a visit to Sigulda. Turaida as a place that reveals itself to visitors, enabling them to absorb the beauty and abundance of our country, to discover Latvia’s folklore and power, because this is the home of Dainas Hill, songs, folklore, and traditions.

Tell us a bit about yourself!

I studied graphic design at the Art Academy of Latvia and culture management at the Latvian Cultural Academy. For the past 16 years, I’ve been creating content for the Latvian National Museum of Art’s souvenir line, forming a link between the items on display at the museum and visitors’ desire to take some mementos with them, testing and studying visitors’ interest in various types of souvenirs, researching demand according to different visitors’ age groups. I’ve been working with the Turaida Museum Reserve for about a year now. Turaida is special, and it should be marked down on our memorial map. Turaida is an enduring asset!