Madara Freidenfelde is an artist working in the field of expanded painting, seeking new ways to broaden the language of painting. She integrates the basic elements of painting into textile objects, knitted works and spatial forms, where material becomes not only a surface, but also part of the content of the work.
Handwork plays an important role in Freidenfelde’s practice – knitting, texture, stitches and repetition. These elements refer to craft traditions historically associated with women, which the artist brings into the field of contemporary art. In her works, craft is not only a technique, but a way to speak about the body, labour, belonging, tradition and the memory of material.
Her practice is also shaped by an interest in natural rhythms, Latvian signs and the transformation of everyday materials. In her recent works she also turns to the world of fashion, overproduction of clothing and consumer culture, giving used garments a new visual and symbolic meaning.
Madara Freidenfelde is currently studying in the Master’s programme of the Painting Department at the Art Academy of Latvia and has also gained experience at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague, Czech Republic. In 2024 she received the SEB Grant in Painting. The artist participates in exhibitions in Latvia and abroad and her works are included in both the Grand Poet hotel art collection and the SEB art collection.
Artist’s works in SEB collection
“Uz tukša kalna aug gara zāle” / “Tall Grass Grows on an Empty Hill”
Adījums, akrils, eļļa / Knitting, acrylic, oil
185 × 185 cm
2024
“Saldo kartupeļu lauks” / “Sweet Potato Field”
Adījums, akrils, eļļa / Knitting, acrylic, oil
35 × 35 cm
2024
