Design studio H2E (Riga, Latvia), one of the most influential design companies in Latvia, developed an exhibition Jewish Rezekne in the Rezekne Green Synagogue (Rezekne, Latvia) that recently undergone major reconstruction works.
The Green Synagogue is the only timber synagogue in Latvia that has survived until now, almost without changes. Historically, building was used as a synagogue. The designers took that in mind and created an exhibition with respect to the original function of the building.
Exhibition tells story about Jewish Rēzekne – Jewish traditions, history, and cultural heritage. Who were they, who are they, and what do we know about them? The design studio started with the creation of synagogue’s graphic sign that is derived from the decorative drawing of the ceiling. Further on was developed the concept of the exhibition design. It respects and emerges from the historical substance of the synagogue hence the main challenge was not to create such exhibition design that could oppress the historical heritage. The designers took that in mind both in the use of media and materials. With minimal and sensitive interference maximal impact on visitors was created.
On the ground floor the designers integrated the exhibition elements and used projections as media to tell the stories of the Jews.
On the first floor, four levitating surfaces have different content and media– digital, analogue, historical exhibits and activities table that introduces people to the Hebrew alphabet.
Team involved in the project
Project developer: Rezekne City Council
Author of the restoration project: Arhitektoniskās izpētes grupa Ltd.
Author of the exhibition content: Creative Museum
Author of the exhibition design project: Design studio H2E
Project Restoration of the Green Synagogue of Rēzekne, including the creation of the Wooden Architecture Heritage Centre and an exhibition on Jewish cultural heritage of the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism LV04 Conservation and Revitalisation of Cultural and Natural Heritage.
