Mara Kalniske was born in Rucava, Latvia in 1944. She graduated the Latvian Academy of Arts. In 1976 Mara obtained the BA degree majoring in ceramics. She is married and has two daughters, she lives and works in Riga, the capital of Latvia.

Since 1977 Mara is participating in international arts exhibitions on a regular basis. Her work has a permanent presence in several arts galleries in Riga.

The artist’s work mostly reflects the ethnographic patterns of the Kurzeme region in Latvia whereas the colour range and themes are quite contemporary. Her works reveal the “Latvian soul”. The symbiosis of ceramics and wood make these works unique. The artist successfully integrates art in everyday affairs while maintaining functionality.