In a vibrant tribute to the legendary Estonian chess grandmaster Paul Keres, narva has unveiled a stunning display of illuminated chess piece decorations along Paul Keres Street, coinciding with the centennial of his birth on January 7, 1916. The initiative, spearheaded by local artist Denis Girenko and the Narva City Goverment, began in July 2024 and culminated in the installation of 31 unique light sculptures that enhance the festive atmosphere of the city. Crafted by Adamlights AS, these artistic pieces are strategically placed on street lighting poles, ensuring they do not obstruct traffic signals while delighting residents and visitors alike. This creative endeavor, costing €21,700, not only beautifies the street but also honors NarvaS rich cultural heritage and its connection to one of chess’s greats.
engineer and Artist Unite to Celebrate Chess Legend in Narva: An Interview with Expert Denis Girenko
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Denis. Notably, Narva has recently unveiled illuminated chess piece decorations along Paul Keres Street as a tribute to the legendary Estonian chess grandmaster. What inspired this vibrant initiative?
Denis Girenko: Thank you for having me. The project was inspired by the centennial of Paul Keres’s birth on January 7, 1916. Keres was not only a significant figure in chess history but also a proud symbol of Estonian culture. We aimed to create an engaging display that honors his legacy while beautifying our city, especially as we celebrate our rich heritage.
Time.news Editor: It’s marvelous to here how the project honors Keres’s legacy. Can you tell us more about the artistic elements of the project?
Denis Girenko: Absolutely! We installed 31 unique light sculptures designed by Adamlights AS. Each piece resembles traditional chess pieces and is strategically placed on street lighting poles, enhancing the festive atmosphere without blocking any traffic signals. This thoughtful placement ensures that the aesthetics serve both form and function.
Time.news Editor: How does this artistic endeavor contribute to Narva’s cultural landscape?
Denis Girenko: The installation contributes significantly to Narva’s cultural landscape by blending art with a historical narrative. It not only beautifies the streets but also instills local pride among residents. such initiatives encourage tourism, providing visitors with a unique experience that connects them to the area’s cultural roots and one of its most illustrious figures.
Time.news Editor: Given the creative nature of this project, what were some of the challenges you faced during its execution?
Denis Girenko: one of the primary challenges was ensuring that the sculptures’ installation wouldn’t obstruct vital traffic signals, which required precise planning and collaboration with the city government.Additionally, adhering to budget constraints was essential, as the project came in at €21,700. We aimed for high-quality materials for longevity while keeping it cost-effective.
Time.news Editor: This project certainly showcases a strong community effort. How can other municipalities learn from Narva’s approach to honoring cultural figures through public art?
Denis Girenko: Other municipalities can take a cue from Narva by integrating local history into their public art projects. Engaging local artists creates a sense of ownership and community relevance. It’s essential to combine artistic vision with practical urban planning to enhance public spaces meaningfully. Collaboration between artists, local governments, and community members is key to the success of such initiatives.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, are there any plans to further develop this concept in Narva or beyond?
Denis Girenko: We’re excited about the potential for future projects to celebrate Narva’s rich heritage.There’s ongoing discussion about expanding similar art installations that reflect the contributions of other notable local figures. The objective is to create a cultural trail that invites exploration and fosters a deeper connection between the community and its history.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Denis, for sharing these insights. Celebrating cultural history through artistic expressions like these really enriches the community.
Denis Girenko: thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss this meaningful project that brings art, history, and community engagement together in Narva.