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Sarle Art Gallery & Studio was founded by Svetlana Sarle in memory of her close friend Vilnis Strazdinz, who first envisioned the idea of opening a gallery.

Vilnis Strazdinz

Vilnis Strazdinš was a prominent Latvian businessman, yet deeply passionate about painting, music, and the dream of having his own gallery.

In Tallinn, Vilnis opened a clinic and, seeing people struggling with illness, said: “We must distract them from their suffering and create a project where, by spending a few hours in a hall, people can immerse themselves in healthy beauty and classical music.”

Art enthusiast

His dream was for the gallery to have a dress code — and that dream has come true. At 63, he passed away, leaving behind bright, warm, heartfelt memories. He had another wish: to help parents in raising their children. He was genuinely happy when speaking about his little friend with the unusual name Sky.

“Heavenly beings,” - Vilnis would say, “must be untouchable and surrounded by music and love.”

His dream has come true: the temple of art is alive. In one year, it has hosted 13 exhibitions, 7 concerts, and numerous lectures.

Thank you, Vilnis Strazdinš. Tallinn will preserve your memory.

A dream

Svetlana Sarle

Behind Sarle Art Gallery & Studio stands a person for whom art is inseparable from human feelings, relationships, and inner honesty. Svetlana Sarle possesses a rare combination of strength and sensitivity. Those who know her closely speak of her openness, remarkable emotional depth, kindness, and her ability to empathize profoundly with others.

Her character unites an inner core with a warm and open attitude toward people. Despite disappointments and life’s challenges, she has preserved her ability to believe in others, to remain honest, decent, and deeply compassionate.

For Svetlana, creating the gallery became not only the fulfillment of her close friend Vilnis Strazdinš’s dream, but also a continuation of her own values — love for people and beauty, respect for memory, gratitude, and the desire to create.

Svetlana is a trained dramatic theatre actress. She worked in theatre and as a television announcer. Later, she led a clinic and, after completing that chapter of her life, returned once again to creativity.

Sarle Art Gallery & Studio was born from the desire to create a space where art remains genuine, and where a person can remain themselves.

The founder