Kedainiai. View of the city. 1933

Mstislav Dobuzhinsky created this sketch, "Kedainiai. View of the city," capturing the essence of a place that held deep personal significance for him. Born in 1875 in what is now Lithuania, Dobuzhinsky experienced firsthand the complex cultural dynamics of a region bridging Eastern and Western Europe. Kedainiai, with its blend of architectural styles and diverse ethnic communities, embodies this intersection. Dobuzhinsky's choice to depict the town suggests an emotional connection to his roots and to the idea of home, despite his later emigration. His artistic exploration offers an alternative narrative to dominant representations, celebrating the beauty of ordinary life through his rendering of architecture and reflections on the river. Consider how Dobuzhinsky’s identity as an artist is intertwined with his personal history. This artwork serves as a mirror, reflecting not only the physical appearance of Kedainiai, but also the artist’s sense of belonging, memory, and cultural identity.