“Šis murālis ir kaut kas paliekošs vietā, kas man ir ļoti svarīga,” says Ozols. To mark the 25th anniversary of his debut album “Cieņa un mīlestība,” the artist has unveiled a large-scale mural at Mārupes iela 35 in Pārdaugava, Riga, based on the original album cover.
Mārupes iela mural commemorates “Cieņa un mīlestība”
The artwork is located in a courtyard where Ozols spent his childhood and teenage years. The site served as the creative foundation for the debut album and the filming location for the music video of the lead single, “Rajons.”
Street artist Elementon (Aleksejs Odnorukovs) created the piece over the course of approximately one week. The project involved Ritvars Stankevičs and the “Armless Birds / Loudless” team, with support from Storent Latvija, Tikkurila Latvija, and Hoodshop.
Did you know?
Released 25 years ago, “Cieņa un mīlestība” was the first full-length hip-hop album released in the Latvian language. It achieved “gold record” status after selling more than 8,000 physical copies.
Community support and cultural impact in Pārdaugava
Ozols told tv3.lv that the mural aims to give the community a “new adventure” rather than celebrating the anniversary selfishly. He credited the residents of Mārupes iela 49 for their responsiveness, stating the project would not have been possible without them.
The musician noted that while 25 years have passed, he still encounters childhood acquaintances and neighbors in the area. He observed that his concerts now attract multiple generations from the same families, reflecting the long-term influence of the music on the Latvian environment.
XiaomiArēna concert marks anniversary peak
The mural unveiling is one of several events marking the anniversary year, which began in the spring with a special exhibition, according to tv3.lv. The celebrations will culminate in a concert on December 5 at the XiaomiArēna.
Ozols told tv3.lv the performance will feature a string orchestra, vocalists from the Riga Cathedral Choir, and various guest artists on stage.
Ozols Anniversary Timeline
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Spring | Special anniversary exhibition |
| Recent | Mural unveiling at Mārupes iela 35 |
| December 5 | Culminating concert at XiaomiArēna |
Common questions about the “Cieņa un mīlestība” project
Who painted the mural?
The mural was created by street artist Aleksejs Odnorukovs (Elementon) with contributions from Ritvars Stankevičs and the “Armless Birds / Loudless” team.
Where exactly is the artwork located?
The mural is located in a courtyard at Mārupes iela 35 in the Pārdaugava neighborhood of Riga.
What is the significance of the album’s sales?
The album sold over 8,000 physical copies, which earned it a “gold record” status and established it as a landmark in Latvian hip-hop history.
“Mana vīzija bija un ir šo jubileju nesvinēt savtīgi, bet iedot mums visiem kādu jaunu piedzīvojumu, kas pavērš un parāda mūs jaunā gaismā gan sabiedrībai, gan pašiem sev.”
— Ozols
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