From Vikings, saunas, hygge, fika, Nokia, and IKEA to introversion and closeness to nature, Mythbústers playfully interrogates images that are often seen as defining features of the region. While some of these myths may seem harmless or even positive, the exhibition invites audiences to question where such narratives come from — and how they influence our understanding of each other.

Comics as a mirror of reality

Curated by David Schilter, the exhibition features the work of two artists from each participating country, invited to interpret both traditional narratives and contemporary stereotypes related to society, education, social systems, and everyday life. The result is a diverse collection of stories that reflect real experiences, personal observations, and unexpected perspectives from across the Nordic and Baltic region.

“Just because they are called comics doesn’t mean they are all comic,” notes Schilter. He emphasises that comics are a powerful medium for addressing complex topics and lived realities. Through visual storytelling, the artists reveal similarities and differences across the region and highlight shared concerns, encouraging visitors to learn more about their neighbours and feel a stronger connection to the broader Nordic‑Baltic space.

According to the curator, many of the stories reveal a particularly strong relationship with nature. “Across different countries, artists touch on themes such as forests, landscapes, and environmental challenges,” Schilter observes. “Deforestation, for example, appears in several works — reminding us that while our cultures differ, we often face the same challenges and should consider long‑term values alongside short‑term economic interests.”

Busting myths in the age of misinformation

Beyond cultural stereotypes, Mythbústers also addresses a broader issue: the role of myths, rumours, and assumptions in today’s information‑saturated world. While some myths may appear lighthearted, the artists show that they can also be misleading or harmful if left unexamined.

In this context, the exhibition encourages critical thinking and media literacy. By “busting” myths, the creators invite audiences to reflect more deeply on how narratives are formed and spread — particularly relevant in an era of misinformation and “fake news.” At the same time, the exhibition demonstrates how myths can serve as starting points for dialogue and deeper understanding.

Lithuanian perspectives: introspection and communication

The exhibition also highlights works by two Lithuanian artists, Ona Kvašytė and Akvilė Magicdustė, who explore distinctive elements of Lithuanian culture and character.

Ona Kvašytė’s comic focuses on one of Lithuania’s most important traditions — the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day weekend. Through her work, she reflects on spirituality, introspection, and the blending of pagan and Christian traditions. According to the artist, these celebrations offer space for reflection not only for religious people, but also for those seeking spiritual meaning outside institutional frameworks. She notes that this tradition remains significant in modern Lithuania, shaped by seasonal darkness, introspective tendencies, and the human need to give meaning to everyday life.

Akvilė Magicdustė takes a lighter, more humorous approach, examining Lithuanian reservedness and communication styles. Her comic playfully depicts situations where quietness, introversion, or indirect communication may be misunderstood — particularly by people from other cultures. While her work is intentionally ironic, it also highlights the value Lithuanians often place on solitude, reflection, and time spent in nature, reminding viewers that no single narrative can define an entire society.

A vibrant comic scene across the region

In addition to the Lithuanian works, artists from other Nordic and Baltic countries reinterpret or humorously challenge myths related to sacred oak trees in Latvia, everyday skiing culture in Finland, Nordic introversion, cycling culture in Denmark, Swedish flat‑pack logic, mythological creatures, pagan traditions, and human relationships with the natural environment.

Together, the exhibition showcases the richness and diversity of comic art in the region, presenting a wide range of artistic styles and storytelling approaches. For many visitors, Mythbústers may also offer a new perspective on comics themselves — not only as entertainment, but as a form of self‑expression and social commentary.

Visiting information

Originally launched in Latvia, Mythbústers is now on display at Vytautas Magnus University, Putvinskio g. 23, 3rd floor foyer, in Kaunas. The exhibition is open to visitors until 18 May.

The organisers hope that visitors will leave not only entertained, but also inspired — to question stereotypes, reflect on shared values, and perhaps even see comics as a medium capable of telling meaningful stories about life in the Nordic and Baltic region.