The storm-torn roof of the Latvian Academy of Arts, damaged on the night of Sunday, was covered with temporary film by workers on Monday. Meanwhile, impressive pieces of brass torn by the wind still lie in front of the building — now they resemble a peculiar art object attracting the attention of passersby, reports TV3 News. What will happen to the damaged roof and when will a new covering appear?
The brass roof was installed during the Soviet era — in the 1970s — and had not caused any problems until now. A large part of it now lies in front of the building.
The storm tore off part of the roof on the night from Saturday to Sunday. Andris Vitoliņš, the rector of the Latvian Academy of Arts, explains that the wind was gusty but very powerful — if it had blown evenly, the roof would have held, as it was regularly checked. However, this time the elements proved stronger.
"The storm tore off a large part of the roof, the turret, decorative elements of the facade, and separate pieces damaged the sidewalk, the library, and a hole was made in the balcony. Everything happened quite impressively. Now we are trying to stabilize the situation as quickly as possible so that the academy does not leak. We have already found roofers who will install a temporary covering to protect the building, and we are clearing away all the debris," Vitoliņš said.
On Tuesday, representatives from the insurance company will arrive to assess the damage caused. Only after that will it become clear how extensive it is, how much a new roof will cost, and how long its restoration will take. The new roof will be made of the same material — brass, as the building is an architectural monument. It was built in 1902 according to the design of architect Wilhelm Bockslaff as the building of the Riga Polytechnic Institute.
Passersby look in astonishment at the torn-off roof, photographing the unusual scene on their smartphones. Students have also shown interest in the brass fragments — they would like to use them to create works of art, but the academy is not allowed to give them away — officially, the roof elements are subject to disposal.
"Well, in a sense, this is the firefighters' work in the genre of art, because when large strips were managed to be removed, they had to be cut, and upon falling, they took on that shape. Next, they will go to scrap metal — we have already called the services, and everything will be taken away within the day," Vitoliņš assured.
It should be mentioned that the Academy of Arts is hosting a student exhibition "JAUNmarka" until January 4. The building can be accessed through the entrance from the courtyard, as the main entrance is closed.
