The leading real estate developer in the Baltics, Linstow Baltic, has signed a cooperation memorandum with the Art Academy of Latvia (LMA) to establish the Linstow Art Award, a targeted support program for the professional development of LMA master’s program graduates. The program provides financial support and access to studio space at the SPORTA 2 creative quarter, creating a platform to enhance the competitiveness of young artists both locally and internationally within the cultural and creative industries.

The mission of the newly established Linstow Art Award is to give long-term support to young Latvian artists, ensuring a stronger art community and a lasting presence of art in the city. The award offers tailored assistance to address the most pressing professional challenges young artists face – from access to workspaces to funding for materials. Each year, three outstanding graduates of the LMA master’s program will receive a one-time scholarship of EUR 3,000 and one-year access to a studio space free of charge at the SPORTA 2 creative quarter, along with opportunities to participate in exhibitions and professional art events.

“Linstow Baltic’s experience in real estate development confirms that a sustainable and competitive urban environment is created where architecture, business, and culture intersect. By supporting young artists and cultural initiatives, we strengthen the synergy between art and entrepreneurship, creating a platform that fosters talent development, cultural diversity, and community engagement. This approach adds value to our development projects, drives innovation, and empowers local communities – shaping urban environments that attract people, ideas, and investment, both today and in the future,” says Frode Grønvold, CEO of Linstow Baltic.

“This collaboration is a significant step forward, giving our most talented graduates the opportunity to enter the professional art world with a strong foundation – resources, visibility, and credibility. The Linstow Art Award provides the support needed for artists to successfully integrate into the contemporary job market while promoting the development of a creative, sustainable, and active society,” adds Kristaps Zariņš, Rector of the Art Academy of Latvia.

The Linstow Art Award will be granted for the first time in 2025. Eligible applicants include graduates of the current academic year as well as LMA master’s program alumni from the past three years in the fields of Visual Arts, Visual-Plastic Arts, Audiovisual and Media Art, and Design. Winners will be selected by an international jury based on artistic quality, technical execution, and conceptual maturity. Applications will be accepted from May 6 to May 30.

Linstow Baltic also extends its gratitude to the law firm COBALT for their professional support, involvement, and contribution to the preparation of the documentation for the Linstow Art Award program. For more information: www.linstowartaward.lv