THE INFLUENTIAL Roman empire which considerably shaped the world as we know it will embellish the Riddoch Art Gallery over the following months.
The award-winning Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World exhibition will exclusively launch in Mount Gambier this weekend during its international tour.
The over 200-piece exhibition which will include artefacts, catapults, frescoes, armour, weapons and much more, has been considered as one of the most “ambitious” displays since the gallery hosted the renowned Da Vinci Machines exhibition in 2014.
Created by renowned Italian artisans Niccolai – Teknoart Snc (Firenze) and Artisans of Florence, gallery director Melentie Pandilovski said he estimates Ancient Rome will draw in around 5000 to 6000 people.
“This is a remarkable opportunity – not just the history buffs – as Mount Gambier is the tour’s only South Australian stop,” Mr Pandilovski said.
“This exhibition showcases the first modern empire which impacted our architecture, roads, aqueducts, logistic, arts and so much more which we still see today.”
Personally studying archaeology, Mr Pandilovski said he would never have thought to envision the “alternative form of education”
“It is possible to overlook historical plans and drawings but it can be difficult to examine the original product as most remaining artifacts no longer exist,” Mr Pandilovski said.
“This exhibition showcases true talent in recreating ancient designs which can only be done by the Artisans of Florence.”
Main Corner coordinator Talie Teakle said a full three-month program has been designed to accompany the exhibition.
“We have incorporated ideas which will hopefully bring people into the gallery which may have never visited before,” Ms Teakle said.
“We have also designed a school-orientated program which will bring approximately 500 school students from across the greater region into the gallery.”
The complex’s volunteer program has also doubled in size according to Ms Teakle since planning for the exhibition.
“This is just a way we are able to enhance our outreach into the community with volunteers travelling as far as Bordertown due to their passion for ancient history,” the coordinator said.
“This is an example of how the arts can have a flow-on economy benefit for the city.
“The display has also given Independent Learning Centre project opportunities with students helping to design decorative components.”
Ancient Rome director Tom Rizzo said the concept involved five years of research and development before being launched in Rome during 2012.
“It received a renowned award during its launch as it was basically the first time in all those years the ancient technology had been reconstructed,” Mr Rizzo said.
“The Romans were the foundation of history and had had impact on Australia even though Italy is located some distance away.
“The saying ‘what have the Romans done for us?’ is ironic when they basically did everything.”
The “multi-generational” program will launch on August 16 with a Ancient Rome VIP Gala: Exclusive Preview Event beginning at 6.30pm with tickets available for purchase from the complex.
Ancient Rome: The Empire that Shaped the World exhibition will be open to the public from August 17 to November 10 with an adult entry cost of $12, concession: $10, children: $6 and family: $25.
A full program will be available on the Riddoch Art Gallery Website.
