Celebrating the 90th anniversary since the birth of Pēteris Martinsons, a world-renowned ceramicist, architect, and art educator from Daugavpils, is a momentous occasion. To honor his legacy, WeRock Association, in collaboration with the Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre, has come up with a unique way to experience his porcelain artworks – through mobile devices using WebAR (Augmented Reality experience accessed through a web browser).
Last winter, when professional art and culture were inaccessible to the public due to the pandemic, the creators behind WeRock Association felt compelled to find innovative ways to make art more accessible. They launched an online platform, www.arpus.online, which utilizes Augmented Reality technology to showcase art. Through this platform, users can view artworks by Pēteris Martinsons from the Rothko Centre collection on their smartphones or tablets.
The Rothko Centre’s exhibition program for 2021 is dedicated to Pēteris Martinsons and his creative legacy. The summer exhibition season features the „Martinsons Award 2021,“ an international juried exhibition as part of the 3rd Latvia Ceramics Biennale. Towards the end of the year, the Pēteris Martinsons Memorial Home is set to open, providing a permanent display of his ceramic collection. In the meantime, the „Pēteris Martinsons: Augmented Reality“ show offers a high-tech experience of select pieces from the artist’s body of work while physical access is limited.
The partnership between the Daugavpils Mark Rothko Art Centre and WeRock Association has brought forth a new way to engage with art, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. By using Augmented Reality, visitors can immerse themselves in the intricate details of Martinsons‘ porcelain creations, gaining a deeper appreciation for his artistry and vision.
For those interested in exploring more of the Rothko Centre’s offerings, there are various exhibitions currently on display, including Mark Rothko’s originals, the „Found in the Collection“ exhibition, and a range of solo and group shows featuring contemporary artists. The Centre’s diverse program caters to art enthusiasts of all tastes, providing a rich cultural experience in the heart of Daugavpils.
As we celebrate the life and work of Pēteris Martinsons on the 90th anniversary of his birth, the use of Augmented Reality to showcase his art serves as a fitting tribute to his innovative spirit. Through this digital platform, his legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences, bridging the gap between the past and the future of art appreciation.