Saving the heroes of Kalevala. Residents of Pitkyaranta intend to restore the unique mosaic panel.
Panel with images of heroes epic Kalevala It was installed on the wall of the Pitkyaranta Community Center 50 years ago. Over time, it faded, and the enamel crumbled. Local activists decided to save it.
The authorities have planned a renovation of the cultural center's façade, which will require the removal of the mural. Residents are concerned: they risk losing a landmark that symbolizes Karelian identity.
"Mosaics were very rare as architectural decorations during the Soviet era. In Karelia, we counted eight—all modest in size and with little apparent meaning. Ours is the most outstanding among them: almost 100 square meters."- said Olga, about the uniqueness of the panel architect Natalia Anishchenko.
The central part of the panel depicts Väinämöinen, the protagonist of the Kalevala (Kaleva is the mythical "land of light"), the first human on Earth to harness his magical powers through song and incantations. A storyteller and singer, he recounts the story of the Kalevala from the creation of the world. Surrounding him are the girl Aino, who turned into a fish, the warrior Lemminkäinen, the Sampo mill, and other heroes of the epic.
Mosaic Master Vladimir Ignatiev I assessed the chances of restoration and came to the conclusion that the mosaic would first have to be transferred to tracing paper, then removed, cardboards (individual mosaic drawings) drawn, and remounted on the wall.
The purchase of the smalt and all the work will require 10-12 million rubles. Supporters of the panel's preservation are seeking an investor and are willing to contribute in any way they can.
Photo: Courtesy of the Pitkyaranta Residents' Initiative Group
