Public memory and black urban holes

The author discusses the aesthetics of urban spaces and public monuments in Vilnius, shaped and erected during the period of independence. He notes that a large amount of lousy public monuments were erected during this period and municipal authorities did not take seriously the timely warning of late Žibuntas Mikšys, an artist who wrote an open letter to authorities two decades ago. Because of multiple reasons (lack of funds and vision as well as true understanding of their role in the city’s life), many public spaces in central areas of Vilnius still look as if they were deserted for decades