“Today, a gift is being presented to the Panevėžys Local Lore Museum. It enriches not only the museum’s collection but also the cultural heritage of the entire city. We are grateful to the Oberson family for the invaluable gift – the works of Kazys Naruševičius. Kazys Naruševičius, an honorary citizen of Panevėžys, artist, and educator, is an inseparable part of our city’s history through his art and contribution to culture. I am delighted that the artist’s works have returned to Panevėžys and found their place in the Local Lore Museum. I sincerely thank the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in Switzerland, the Minister-Counselor Ernestas Grabažis, and everyone who contributed to this initiative. This gift embodies not only the values of art but also the values of friendship that unite people and nations. Thank you for this special gift to the city and its people,” said the Mayor of Panevėžys Rytis Račkauskas.

The works were donated to the museum by Jean Paul and Josiane Oberson, who reside in the city of Bulle, Switzerland. The cooperation between Kazys Naruševičius, his wife Ona Naruševičienė and Swiss artists began in 1992, when a children’s theater troupe from Geneva participated in the International Children’s Theater Festival in Panevėžys. This encounter opened the door to a long-lasting friendship, which has culminated in this generous gift to the city.

In March 2024, Arūnas Astramskas, the Director of Panevėžys Local Lore Museum, received a letter from Mr. Jean Paul  Oberson with an offer to donate the works of his friend Kazys Naruševičius to Panevėžys. The Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania in the Swiss Confederation extended a friendly hand for the transportation of the works to Panevėžys. This collection will enrich the funds of Panevėžys Local Lore Museum and will be an important contribution to the city’s cultural heritage.