Architectural and Artistic Features of the House of Culture in the Village of Shroma

Abstract

During the Soviet period, significant attention was paid to the architectural and artistic design of Houses of Culture. Due to shared stylistic traits, as well as specific location, climate, and various other factors, Houses of Culture built across the Soviet Union emerged as unique architectural monuments and represent as distinguished examples of Soviet architecture.

This article presents an architectural and artistic analysis of the House of Culture in the village of Shroma, Ozurgeti Municipality, in Guria, Georgia, which was built in 1956 according to the project of architect Levan Tsomaia.

The article discusses the samples of monumental painting created for this building by Robert Sturua. Featuring portrait depictions of local peasants, these works have become a chronicle of the village’s history and its inhabitants.

In terms of its architecture, interior spatial organization, and the use of artistic-decorative elements, the House of Culture is undoubtedly a highly interesting monument of Soviet heritage. Consequently, its preservation has been placed on the agenda of the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation of Georgia.