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Description
The project goal is to bring back a multipurpose use of the “Sokolovna” building built in 1898 by the native German population (Turnverein Association).
Originally, it served to develop the body and soul (according to ancient principles) and was a natural center of all town activities. Nowadays, mostly gym activities take place here and the original cultural and social functions have disappeared. The condition of the city, including its center where „Sokolovna“ is located, is still affected by the expulsion of Germans after the 2nd World War and by the interrupted relationship of the citizens to their town. The area is facing depopulation of public spaces resulting in socio-pathological phenomena.
The project is focused on a revitalization of the building, reviving thus not only the cultural monument but also its surroundings. “Sokolovna“ is closely connected with the history of the town which is graphically presented throughout the whole building. It begins at the well in the basement, winds through the entrance foyer and continues into the attic with several exhibitions describing the history. The present - a symbolic connection between students and traditional jewellery and glass companies - is shown in the tower. The presented story will be supported by ongoing events that will take place in a multifunctional hall in the basement. Its foyer will offer a background for the Sokol Association. The whole space is designed for exhibitions, lectures and seminars.
Based on the main theme “Searching the Lost Identity“, the events will focus on the quality perception of the public space and buildings, and on the historical heritage of the original population. The project will be implemented with the support and in cooperation with the City of Jablonec nad Nisou, PLAC and Different Jablonec, secondary schools in the city, Technical University of Liberec, club Kruháč - Diakonie Jablonec and the District Chamber of Commerce.
Summary of project results
The project revived the Sokol Hall, restored its cultural and social role, and emphasized its significance in the city, which was previously unrecognized. It also transformed how Sokol was perceived by its members and by the town''s inhabitants and its. This change allows Sokol and the Hall to expand, attract new activities, and secure additional resources for ongoing restoration efforts.
We organized various cultural and social events, vital for reviving the Sokol Hall and introducing it to a broader audience. We established partnerships with significant organizations in Jablonec nad Nisou, the Liberec Region and beyond, including universities, high schools, associations, institutions and local glass and jewellery companies. Networking is crucial for future collaborations. We also held an open call for residencies, leading to temporary but professionally curated artistic interventions. A permanent exhibition was created in the building, with the outcomes summarized in a book titled Arena and a video introducing Sokol. These activities provided an essential foundation for further development.
The main outputs include 26 cultural and social events and a permanent exhibition including a restored well area, a picture of the town showing the historical layers of its development, and a 3D model of the building from the time of its original construction. The 3D model was an unplanned addition that arose during the project. For end users, the improved building environment is evident, leading to a doubling the usage of hours in the Sokol Hall.