Grand Opening of Jam Factory Art Center in Lviv – A New Hub for Contemporary Arts
Date: 2023-11-19 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: CULTURE
The idea to establish a new cultural center in Lviv was conceived in 2015 by philanthropist, cultural entrepreneur, and historian Dr. Harald Binder. Determined to preserve the historic "Jam Factory," Binder invested significantly in the project's development. The building required extensive restoration, with investors ensuring the preservation of every antique brick and incorporating modern elements to enhance its structure.
The grand opening, delayed by recent conflicts, marks a unique project in Lviv and Ukraine. Harald Binder, the founder of Jam Factory Art Center, envisions the space not merely as a museum or exhibition hall but as a vibrant meeting place for learning, discussion, and experience sharing.
The complex spans over 3,500 square meters and comprises six distinct spaces. Among its unique features are a theater equipped with cutting-edge technology, exhibition halls, some functioning within a quality bomb shelter, a parking area with solar panel roofing, a modern black cube serving as a multifunctional space, Jam Cafe, three terraces, and even a "smart home" system allowing control of space lighting and sound through a tablet.
Bozhena Pelenska, the program executive director, expressed the importance of transforming this mentally distant city area into a focal point for people. The area, often perceived as "somewhere beyond High Castle," has now become an attraction for Lviv residents.
Historically, the "Jam Factory" building, with its neo-Gothic facade, holds local heritage status. Built in 1872 on the request of Jewish entrepreneur Josef Kronik, the Kronik family perished during World War II. Post-war, the factory imported wines from Moldova and other parts of the USSR, later converting into a fruit and vegetable processing facility in 1970. Activity ceased in the 1990s, and from 2008, the building served temporarily for cultural initiatives.
The grand opening, delayed by recent conflicts, marks a unique project in Lviv and Ukraine. Harald Binder, the founder of Jam Factory Art Center, envisions the space not merely as a museum or exhibition hall but as a vibrant meeting place for learning, discussion, and experience sharing.
The complex spans over 3,500 square meters and comprises six distinct spaces. Among its unique features are a theater equipped with cutting-edge technology, exhibition halls, some functioning within a quality bomb shelter, a parking area with solar panel roofing, a modern black cube serving as a multifunctional space, Jam Cafe, three terraces, and even a "smart home" system allowing control of space lighting and sound through a tablet.
Bozhena Pelenska, the program executive director, expressed the importance of transforming this mentally distant city area into a focal point for people. The area, often perceived as "somewhere beyond High Castle," has now become an attraction for Lviv residents.
Historically, the "Jam Factory" building, with its neo-Gothic facade, holds local heritage status. Built in 1872 on the request of Jewish entrepreneur Josef Kronik, the Kronik family perished during World War II. Post-war, the factory imported wines from Moldova and other parts of the USSR, later converting into a fruit and vegetable processing facility in 1970. Activity ceased in the 1990s, and from 2008, the building served temporarily for cultural initiatives.
