The building of the Art Academy of Latvia is one of the most notable architectural and cultural monuments located in the historic centre of Riga. Its striking presence immediately sets it apart: a grand red-brick structure that blends Neo-Gothic forms with decorative elements characteristic of early 20th-century Riga.
Designed by architect Wilhelm Ludwig Nikolai Bokcslaff (1858–1945), the façade reflects Riga’s historic ties to the Hanseatic League, echoing the city’s medieval merchant past through pointed arches, ornate window groupings, and vertical accents. The Neo-Gothic style - rarely used on such a scale in Riga - gives the building a distinctive silhouette and makes it one of the most architecturally expressive academic buildings in the Baltics.
The building's interior design is equally splendid. Noteworthy features include Art Nouveau stained-glass panels crafted in the workshop of Ernst Friedrich Tode (1852–1932), which fill the halls with soft coloured light, and sculptural decorations by August Volz (1851–1926), whose detailed work adds artistic richness throughout the interiors. The combination of Neo-Gothic structure with refined Art Nouveau artistry makes the Academy truly unique, both architecturally and culturally.
Original purpose and changing roles through time
The construction of the building began at the end of the 19th century when the Riga Stock Exchange Committee allotted a hefty amount of money for the construction of the Commerce School of the Riga Stock Exchange. The Commerce School opened in 1905 and occupied the building until 1915. Later the building housed the Riga City German Gymnasium and Vilis Olavs Commerce School. On October 7, 1940 the building became home to the Art Academy of Latvia, and remains so today.
The academy today
The Latvian Academy of Art is a fully accredited institution offering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree programs. Today, it serves as one of Latvia’s leading centres for creative education, combining classical academic training with modern approaches to visual expression. Students develop their skills across a wide range of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, design, and art history, while being encouraged to experiment, innovate, and refine their artistic voice. The Academy’s environment, set within a historic architectural landmark, provides an inspiring backdrop for the next generation of Latvian artists and cultural professionals.
Why visit
The Art Academy of Latvia is an interesting stop for those interested in art or architecture. Each year, around the holiday period, the Academy also hosts JAUNmarka, a vibrant art fair where students showcase and sell their works, making it one of the best places in Riga to discover fresh talent and take home unique, affordable art.
Historical highlight
The Art Academy of Latvia occupies one of Riga’s most historically significant academic buildings. Originally built for the Commerce School of the Riga Stock Exchange, the structure later housed several educational institutions before becoming the home of the Art Academy in 1940. Over the decades, it has played a key role in shaping Latvia’s cultural identity by educating generations of artists who contributed to national art movements, design innovation, and cultural preservation.
How to get there
The Art Academy of Latvia is located on Kalpaka boulevard, just steps from the city’s central parks and within a short walk of Old Town Riga. It’s easily accessible by public transport - several bus and tram routes stop nearby, making it simple to reach from any part of the city. For those exploring on foot, it’s conveniently situated close to major landmarks such as the National Museum of Art and the Esplanāde park.