Description
The late classicist Suure-Kõpu is adorned with Pompeian-style murals and features impressive neo-antique Italian design elements. The Showcasing Suure-Kõpu through Art and Taste project is a comprehensive initiative to help promote public access to and awareness of this remarkable manor. The project will bring together new technologies and antique aesthetics to create a sensory learning experience for guests. Though some of the manor’s murals were destroyed during previous restorations, the manor will use projection technology to give guests a sense of what the originals may have looked like. A multimedia installation will also provide guests with historical context and background information. The installation will feature information about the technical aspects of the manor’s Pompeian murals and about the ways in which local Estonian produce, such as herbs from the Suure-Kõpu garden, can be incorporated into traditionally Italian cuisine. This information may be combined with more hands-on learning opportunities, such as fresco painting lessons or cooking classes, to give guests a more sensory appreciation of the manor’s heritage.
Summary of project results
Suure-Kõpu manor houses a basic school. The building was restored during the EEA grants period 2004-2009. Current project focused on the promotion of manor complex as a visitor centre. The project “Showcasing Suure-Kõpu through Art and Taste“ concentrated on the local peculiarity – the admiration of Italy, especially Pompeii in 19th century and the reflection of this trend by local nobility. In Kõpu notorious Pompeian-style paintings were unveiled and exhibited during the restoration. The new highly professional exhibition and multimedia installation provides the guests with thorough historical context and background information on this cultural phenomenon. On the basis of the installation a special curriculum for pupils on antique art was worked out that will be promoted to other schools in Estonia. The theme of Italy was endorsed by the development activities in the manor park. The backyard of the park that had been left in neglect for decades was turned into herb garden. The garden as well as the purchase of new kitchen technique supports the development of catering services in the manor. All these activities were based on study tour to Italy to educate the project and service promoters. As a part of the project also the marketing strategy for Kõpu manor was prepared. The project reached its goals and was well promoted in local and national media. The activities carried out support regional development and created new services to attract visitors but also to improve the educational environment both for local students and pupils from other schools in Estonia.
Summary of bilateral results