Unique Lithuanian park: No funding, but crowds of visitors

In a quiet corner of Lithuania, a unique sculpture park stands as a testament to artistic dedication, yet it operates without a single euro in support. Located in Panevėžys district on land owned by renowned sculptor and educator Alfridas Pajuodis, the park showcases an unparalleled collection of lunar stone sculptures. Despite its popularity and steady stream of visitors, Pajuodis single-handedly maintains this two-hectare artistic haven, funded entirely by his salary as a teacher.

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The sculptures are enough. I am creating this park for people, not for myself. Although I do it for my own pleasure, it is still for the public.

Pajuodis describes the creative process as all-consuming, where time and physical needs fade away, leaving only the artist and the stone. He emphasizes that the park is for the public, not for himself, created out of a deep personal satisfaction but intended for societal enjoyment. The sculptures are integrated with nature, respecting the existing trees, bushes, and moss of the former manor grounds. This harmonious blend of art and nature is a core philosophy for Pajuodis, who often finds himself working in the park with a scythe during his holidays, miles away from his teaching duties.

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You find such a relationship – art together with nature, and nature itself. And it seems like it was meant to be, as if it has been this way for some time.

The park's abstract sculptures invite individual interpretation, with philosophical and encoded meanings embedded within. Pajuodis explains one piece as representing cosmological concepts like day, night, Earth, and sky, space, and time. However, he believes that serious art in a rural setting should not overwhelm visitors. Local residents appreciate the natural beauty, finding solace in the old trees, the sky, and the sounds of birds, even if the sculptures themselves are not their primary focus.

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Nothing, I think it's beautiful and I really like the old trees.

Pajuodis has applied for numerous projects over the years, submitting about ten proposals, but has received no funding. Despite this lack of external support, the park's renown and visitor numbers continue to grow, sustained by the artist's unwavering commitment and passion.

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Those who don't like the sculptures look at the sky, nature, the grass, listen to the birds, and feel perfectly fine.