This year, the team at the Kazys Varnelis House, a branch of the National Museum of Lithuania, began the festive season with a special social initiative: on 5–8 December, they held stained-glass workshops for seniors in care institutions and for people with disabilities in day centres across Vilnius and the Šalčininkai district.

Part of the museum’s Christmas events programme, this initiative offers an opportunity to creatively engage and bring communities together.
“It is important to us that culture and creativity remain accessible to everyone. This initiative is a small yet heartfelt gift to lonely and cared-for seniors who especially need a sense of togetherness,” says Daiva Vaišnienė, Director of the Kazys Varnelis House-Museum.

Participants created Christmas stained-glass ornaments inspired by ethnographic “op art”, characterised by vivid colours, geometric patterns, and playful light effects that brighten the anticipation of the holiday season. The workshops are adapted for people of different ages and physical abilities, ensuring that both seniors and people with disabilities can take part.

An Open Museum

The festive season always strengthens the sense of community. At the National Museum of Lithuania, increasing attention is given to cultural accessibility, senior socialisation, and the integration of various forms of art therapy into everyday life.

The museum’s stained-glass education programme was born out of a desire to build an open network of cultural services that reach people directly. This is an important step in advancing the museum’s commitment to cultural accessibility – a priority it pursues consistently and in response to real societal needs.

Visitors who, due to health or mobility limitations, cannot come to the museum often lose their connection with culture. Initiatives like this help bridge that gap, rebuilding social and cultural ties.

Three Stops on the Social Initiative Route

Educators from the Kazys Varnelis House-Museum have already visited the “Senevita” care home for seniors and people with disabilities, as well as the “Šviesa” day centre – one of the most active community hubs for people with disabilities in Vilnius, offering a range of creative, educational, and social programmes. Workshops were also held at the Čiužakampis Social Services and Nursing Home, which serves seniors and adults with disabilities in the Šalčininkai region. The museum team’s visit there was particularly meaningful, as cultural initiatives less frequently reach care institutions located outside the city.

In addition to creative activities, educators introduced participants to the history of stained glass in Lithuania – from ecclesiastical art to modern design. These stories are adapted to each audience, highlighting the symbolism of colours, the meaning of patterns, and the cultural significance of light. Every participant leaves the workshop with a handmade ornament – a special gift to keep for themselves, to share with loved ones, or to contribute to their care home community.