Spotlight: Rita Ansone – From Riga to Brussels to Lisbon, a Journey in Atmospheric Photography

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of contemporary photography, few artists have managed to capture the subtle interplay between reality and fantasy as masterfully as Rita Ansone. Originally from Latvia, with significant creative chapters in Brussels and now Lisbon, Ansone’s photographic journey is a testament to the power of visual storytelling across cultures and continents. This spotlight article delves deep into her artistic evolution, her impact on the photographic community, and her ongoing contributions to projects like “People of Lisbon,” all while highlighting her connection to international photography groups such as Photoresk.

Early Life and Education

Rita Ansone’s artistic roots trace back to Riga, Latvia, where she graduated with a diploma in photography in 2008. This formal education laid the technical and conceptual foundation for her subsequent explorations in the medium. Riga, known for its vibrant art scene and historical significance, provided an ideal backdrop for Ansone to develop her unique visual language (TAP Air Portugal, 2021).

Artistic Philosophy and Style

Ansone’s work is characterized by a fascination with atmospheric beauty and the transient nature of moments. Her photographs often oscillate between the realms of reality and fantasy, inviting viewers to question the boundaries between the two. As she articulates,

“Visual details play an important role in my perception of everyday life. I enjoy exploring how precise atmospheres and ambiances of the moment can be captured. Some of my photographs depict a world that floats between reality and fantasy, between believable spaces and sites of make believe.”
— Saatchi Art

This approach is evident in her limited edition prints, such as “Part of Lyon,” “The Way Forward,” and “The Blue Eye,” each available in editions of ten and measuring 45 x 30 inches. These works demonstrate her commitment to both technical precision and emotional resonance.

Professional Trajectory: From Brussels to Lisbon

Brussels: Community and Collaboration

After her formative years in Latvia and the UK, Ansone relocated to Brussels, Belgium. Here, she became an active member of the city’s vibrant art scene, participating in numerous group exhibitions and collaborative projects. Notably, she was involved with the Brussels Circle of Diplomatic Artists (BRUCODA), an initiative aimed at connecting artists within the diplomatic community to foster cross-cultural dialogue (BRUCODA).

 
• March 2018: “Life on the Move” at Atelier 29, as part of the “Radiance” project

 

• March 2019: “Nightshift” at Gallery Ravenstein

 

• November 2018: Participation in the “Latvija” project by Swara Vocal Ensemble at Eglise Notre Dame du Sacre-Coeur

These experiences not only expanded her artistic horizons but also underscored her commitment to collaborative creativity.

Lisbon: A New Chapter

In recent years, Ansone has made Lisbon her home. The city’s unique blend of tradition and cosmopolitanism has proven fertile ground for her creative pursuits. She is currently a member of the crew working on the acclaimed docu-series “People of Lisbon,” which chronicles the diverse stories of the city’s residents (Rita Ansone Photography; The Portugal News, 2021).

“People of Lisbon”: Documenting Diversity

“People of Lisbon” is a micro-documentary series co-created by Irish filmmaker Stephen O’Regan and Rita Ansone. The project began in 2020, during the challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the aim of highlighting the authentic voices and faces of Lisbon. The series has since aired over 29 episodes, each offering a glimpse into the lives of real Lisboetas (The Portugal News, 2021).

Ansone’s photographic eye is central to the project’s success. Her ability to capture the subtle nuances of her subjects—their hopes, struggles, and joys—imbues each episode with a sense of intimacy and authenticity. The project has been featured in major publications, including The Guardian, Folha de S.Paulo, and TAP Air Portugal’s in-flight magazine (Rita Ansone Photography; TAP Air Portugal, 2021).

Exhibition History and Recognition

Ansone’s work has been showcased in a variety of solo and group exhibitions across Europe. Her exhibition history reflects both her international reach and her versatility as an artist.

Her work has also been published in a wide array of international outlets, further cementing her reputation as a photographer of note (Rita Ansone Photography).

Community Engagement: Photoresk and Beyond

Ansone’s commitment to community is evident in her involvement with international photography groups such as Photoresk. Photoresk is a friendly, inclusive meetup group for photography enthusiasts of all skill levels, with active chapters in cities like Brussels, Cologne, Berlin, and Lisbon (Photoresk). The group emphasizes learning, sharing, and the joy of photography through walks, excursions, and exhibitions.

Ansone’s participation in such groups not only enriches her own practice but also inspires others to pursue photography as a means of self-expression and community building.

Artistic Impact and Personal Perspective

What sets Rita Ansone apart is her unwavering dedication to capturing the “atmospheric beauty” of everyday life. Her photographs transcend mere documentation; they evoke emotion, provoke thought, and invite viewers into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. This is particularly evident in her work for “People of Lisbon,” where her lens serves as a bridge between cultures, generations, and stories.

In my considered opinion, Ansone’s greatest strength lies in her ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments. Whether navigating the bustling streets of Brussels or the sun-drenched avenues of Lisbon, she brings a consistent vision and sensitivity to her work. Her international experience, coupled with her collaborative spirit, makes her a valuable asset to any creative community.

Moreover, Ansone’s willingness to share her knowledge—through exhibitions, publications, and community groups—demonstrates a commitment to the broader photographic ecosystem. She is not only a creator but also a connector, fostering dialogue and inspiration among fellow artists and enthusiasts.

Recent Work: Brussels, New Photos, and the GlamUp Event

In Brussels, Rita Ansone continues to capture the vibrant life of the city through her lens. Among her recent projects is the documentation of the inspiring GlamUp event. This unique initiative invited African women, who work in the raw materials industry for cosmetics in Africa, to experience using these beauty products themselves here in Brussels—something they would not normally be able to afford. The event culminated in a heartfelt photo session, allowing these women to see themselves in a new light and celebrate their beauty and achievements.

Conclusion

Rita Ansone’s journey from Riga to Brussels to Lisbon is a story of artistic growth, cross-cultural exploration, and unwavering passion for photography. Her work, marked by its atmospheric depth and narrative richness, continues to resonate with audiences across Europe and beyond. As she prepares for upcoming exhibitions and continues her work on projects like “People of Lisbon,” Ansone stands as a shining example of how photography can bridge divides and celebrate the diversity of human experience.

For members of Photoresk and the wider photography community, Rita Ansone’s story is both an inspiration and a call to action: to look closer, to see deeper, and to capture the fleeting beauty that surrounds us all.

References

 
• Saatchi Art. (n.d.). Rita Ansone | Saatchi Art. Saatchi Art

 

• Model Management. (n.d.). Rita Ansone – a Photographer from Brussels, Belgium. Model Management

 

• Rita Ansone Photography. (n.d.). About – Rita Ansone Photography. rita-ansone.com

 

• BRUCODA. (n.d.). The Brussels Circle of Diplomatic Artists. brucoda.expat.brussels

 

• The Portugal News. (2021, May 14). “Real Lisbon” through the lenses of Stephen O’Regan and Rita Ansone. The Portugal News

 

• TAP Air Portugal. (2021). People of Lisbon. flytap.com

 

• Photoresk. (n.d.). Photoresk International – The Friendly Photography Group | For you! photoresk.com

 

• Photoresk. (n.d.). Real Brussels beers and tour in a vintage bus | Photoresk. photoresk.com

Prepared for Photoresk.com, May 2025