Arctic's central hub will commence operation
In the frigid expanse of northeastern Siberia, a cultural revolution is underway. The Arctic Center of Epic and Arts, a monumental structure standing tall at 36.7 meters, is taking shape in the city of Yakutsk, the capital of the Sakha Republic, also known as Yakutia. Covering an area of 33,000 square meters, this centre is set to become a hub for artistic expression and cultural preservation, with a seating capacity of 1533, divided between the Yakutia Philharmonic (700 seats) and the Olonho Theater (over 800 seats).
The VIS Group is spearheading the construction of this impressive centre, which boasts 177 parking spaces. The decision to build the centre near Lake Sayssary, a location steeped in historical significance, was not made lightly. It was on the shores of this lake that the first Ysyakh, the Sakha New Year celebration, was organised by Elley Bootor, the first ancestor of the Sakha people.
Andrey Borisov, the general director of the Arctic Center of Epic and Arts, and Andrey Suslov, whose role in the project is yet to be specified, emphasise the importance of the concepts "Arctic" and "epic" in the centre's vision. The centre aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Sakha people, a heritage that blends Turkic and Paleo-Asiatic elements and is renowned for its unique language and epic storytelling tradition, such as the Olonkho epic.
As of now, work on the centre is progressing at an 83% completion rate. The remaining tasks include asphalt paving, cobblestone laying, plastering, ventilation and electrical installation, and more. Once completed, the centre will operate from morning till evening, welcoming up to 2,000 visitors daily.
The Arctic Center of Epic and Arts will not only be a specialized platform for creative collectives but also feature public spaces, including museums and cultural exhibitions. Spirituality is a significant aspect of Yakutia, and the centre is expected to reflect this, offering a space for the exploration and celebration of the region's unique cultural expressions.
With just two and a half months left until the officially announced commissioning date in September 2025, the anticipation for the Arctic Center of Epic and Arts is palpable. This centre promises to be a beacon of cultural exchange and modernization, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary artistic expressions, and contributing significantly to the global cultural landscape.
The Arctic Center of Epic and Arts, once completed, will offer endless opportunities for entertainment, as it welcomes up to 2,000 visitors daily, making it a hub not only for artistic expression and cultural preservation but also for the exploration and celebration of Yakutia's unique cultural expressions. The center's focus on the Olonkho epic and the distinct cultural heritage of the Sakha people ensures a unique entertainment experience that blends traditional storytelling with modern construction, creating a spectacle that will contribute significantly to the global cultural landscape.
