Exhibitions

06.03.2025 — 30.03.2025

Karl Joonas Alamaa “Daily Play and Bread” at EKA Gallery 7.–30.03.2025

Karl Joonas Alamaa’s solo exhibition “Daily Play and Bread”
7.–30.03.2025
Open Tue–Sat 12–6pm Sun 12–4pm, free entry
Opening: 6.03.2025 at 6pm

Artist and designer Karl Joonas Alamaa is interested in personal and collective power — how the strength of individuals can oppose authority and politics. The exhibition is based on interviews with people from different parts of the world who have been forced to leave their home countries for various reasons. Working with archival materials and collecting personal stories, their works highlight the power of seemingly small actions to unite people and create social change.

“The basis of the research is the story of my great-aunt Leili, who was deported to Siberia during the Stalinist purges,” explains Alamaa. “In Siberia, Leili was sent to work in a birch forests. On another day of work, she carved her name and family details into the bark of a birch tree. Unexpectedly, that log reached the workshop where her father worked, and he happened to see it after a long time of separation.” This notion of hope amidst extreme repression raises critical questions about the nature of hope, resilience, and resistance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. How can individuals find hope in the most desperate situations? How do small, personal acts of resistance challenge the carefully designed power structures and contribute to broader social change?

The title of the exhibition is derived from the aphorism of the ancient Roman poet Juvenal “Give them bread and circuses and they will never revolt.” This refers to bread as a cross-cultural symbol, representing everyday well-being and basic needs as well as their use as a tool of oppression. The exhibition brings together textile sculptures and other interactive and playful works that explore memory and society, delving into the themes of finding hope and purpose in a world that often feels suffocating and restrictive.

Karl Joonas Alamaa (2000) has studied fashion at the Estonian Academy of Arts and costume design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp. In their practice, they often engage with the notion of the mundane, exploring the potential of everyday phenomena and small actions to create change, working with historical archival materials, personal memories, and experiences. The exhibition has grown out of their master’s project, for which they have received the Mathilde Horlait-Dapsens Prize, the JAT Prize and the Future Proef Award.

Cheerful trio: Karl Joonas Alamaa, Linda Mai Kari, Mikk Lahesalu

Language editor: Olivia Soans

Lighting designer: Mikk-Mait Kivi

Graphic designer: Fatima-Ezzahra Khammas

Special thanks: Myriam Van Gucth, Esther Severi, Vaast Colson, Helena Kask, Martin Lahesalu, Visa Nurmi, Andres Alamaa, Siiri Alamaa, Peeter Kari, Asmus Soodla, Jim Wockenfuß, Lisette Sivard, Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum.

The exhibition is supported by Cultural Endowment of Estonia, Mathilde Horlait-Dapsens Foundation and Tallinn City.

Opening drinks from Põhjala Brewery.

Posted by Kaisa Maasik — Permalink

Karl Joonas Alamaa “Daily Play and Bread” at EKA Gallery 7.–30.03.2025

Thursday 06 March, 2025 — Sunday 30 March, 2025

Karl Joonas Alamaa’s solo exhibition “Daily Play and Bread”
7.–30.03.2025
Open Tue–Sat 12–6pm Sun 12–4pm, free entry
Opening: 6.03.2025 at 6pm

Artist and designer Karl Joonas Alamaa is interested in personal and collective power — how the strength of individuals can oppose authority and politics. The exhibition is based on interviews with people from different parts of the world who have been forced to leave their home countries for various reasons. Working with archival materials and collecting personal stories, their works highlight the power of seemingly small actions to unite people and create social change.

“The basis of the research is the story of my great-aunt Leili, who was deported to Siberia during the Stalinist purges,” explains Alamaa. “In Siberia, Leili was sent to work in a birch forests. On another day of work, she carved her name and family details into the bark of a birch tree. Unexpectedly, that log reached the workshop where her father worked, and he happened to see it after a long time of separation.” This notion of hope amidst extreme repression raises critical questions about the nature of hope, resilience, and resistance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. How can individuals find hope in the most desperate situations? How do small, personal acts of resistance challenge the carefully designed power structures and contribute to broader social change?

The title of the exhibition is derived from the aphorism of the ancient Roman poet Juvenal “Give them bread and circuses and they will never revolt.” This refers to bread as a cross-cultural symbol, representing everyday well-being and basic needs as well as their use as a tool of oppression. The exhibition brings together textile sculptures and other interactive and playful works that explore memory and society, delving into the themes of finding hope and purpose in a world that often feels suffocating and restrictive.

Karl Joonas Alamaa (2000) has studied fashion at the Estonian Academy of Arts and costume design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp. In their practice, they often engage with the notion of the mundane, exploring the potential of everyday phenomena and small actions to create change, working with historical archival materials, personal memories, and experiences. The exhibition has grown out of their master’s project, for which they have received the Mathilde Horlait-Dapsens Prize, the JAT Prize and the Future Proef Award.

Cheerful trio: Karl Joonas Alamaa, Linda Mai Kari, Mikk Lahesalu

Language editor: Olivia Soans

Lighting designer: Mikk-Mait Kivi

Graphic designer: Fatima-Ezzahra Khammas

Special thanks: Myriam Van Gucth, Esther Severi, Vaast Colson, Helena Kask, Martin Lahesalu, Visa Nurmi, Andres Alamaa, Siiri Alamaa, Peeter Kari, Asmus Soodla, Jim Wockenfuß, Lisette Sivard, Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp, Eesti Vabaõhumuuseum.

The exhibition is supported by Cultural Endowment of Estonia, Mathilde Horlait-Dapsens Foundation and Tallinn City.

Opening drinks from Põhjala Brewery.

Posted by Kaisa Maasik — Permalink

20.02.2025 — 27.02.2025

Karlotta Lainväe at Uus Rada Gallery

You are invited to the opening of Karlotta Lainväe’s exhibition “Where do I go when I follow the thread?” on February 20th at 18:00 at Uus Rada Gallery.

In the exhibition “Where do I go when I follow the thread?” I invite you to join me on my journey to unravel the secrets of the place I call home. The sea, the forest, the fields and the rocks, they all hold mystery and knowledge deep within. What parts of my family and ancestors are woven into this place and what do I carry forward? The sense of security shining from there is always with me, yet it is fragile and comes with the weight of responsibility to protect it all.

Karlotta Lainväe is an artist studying photography in EKA, in her work she focuses on the human search for security and belonging. She also examines how connections to history, nature, and rituals create a sense of safety that protects us yet remains fragile and easily lost. To bring her ideas to life, she uses photography, handcrafts and installations to create a visual world where viewers can reflect on their own internal and external sense of security.

Opening: 20.02 at 18:00

Exhibition open: 21.02 – 27.02 at 16:00 – 19:00

Uus Rada Gallery

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

Karlotta Lainväe at Uus Rada Gallery

Thursday 20 February, 2025 — Thursday 27 February, 2025

You are invited to the opening of Karlotta Lainväe’s exhibition “Where do I go when I follow the thread?” on February 20th at 18:00 at Uus Rada Gallery.

In the exhibition “Where do I go when I follow the thread?” I invite you to join me on my journey to unravel the secrets of the place I call home. The sea, the forest, the fields and the rocks, they all hold mystery and knowledge deep within. What parts of my family and ancestors are woven into this place and what do I carry forward? The sense of security shining from there is always with me, yet it is fragile and comes with the weight of responsibility to protect it all.

Karlotta Lainväe is an artist studying photography in EKA, in her work she focuses on the human search for security and belonging. She also examines how connections to history, nature, and rituals create a sense of safety that protects us yet remains fragile and easily lost. To bring her ideas to life, she uses photography, handcrafts and installations to create a visual world where viewers can reflect on their own internal and external sense of security.

Opening: 20.02 at 18:00

Exhibition open: 21.02 – 27.02 at 16:00 – 19:00

Uus Rada Gallery

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

03.02.2025 — 30.03.2025

“Dancing with the Stars!” at EKA Billboard Gallery 3.02.–2.03.2025

Dancing

DANCING WITH THE STARS!
EKA Billboard Gallery 3.02.–2.03.2025
Open 24/7, free
Opening: 3.02.25 at 5 pm

Dancing with the Stars! exhibition showcases the designed letters and the process of the class Typography I. During 14 weeks several exercises and experimentations were carried out, drawing was done both by hand and on the computer, using toilet paper, towels, foam and even a metal engraver.

While the first seven weeks were dedicated to experimentation and playing, the last seven focused on creating an entire alphabet and going through the letter design process. Vectorised letters were created, several of which were also made into working font files.

Students:
Simon Janson, Ryan Kaabel, Anni Kangur, Riste Sofie Käär, Jan-Markus Maasepp, Alina Maškina, Elisabeth Mägi, Berit Raun, Mattias Erik Tiik, Rasmus Tikerpe, Katariina Tõnismäe, Mark Albert Villand, Artjom Ševtšenko, Kätriin Reinart, Eline Cremers, Mira Keygnaert, Dennis Vugts

Supervisor:
Agnes Isabelle Veevo

The fonts can be downloaded for free from the SUVA Type Foundry website: suvatypefoundry.ee

Posted by EKA galerii — Permalink

“Dancing with the Stars!” at EKA Billboard Gallery 3.02.–2.03.2025

Monday 03 February, 2025 — Sunday 30 March, 2025

Dancing

DANCING WITH THE STARS!
EKA Billboard Gallery 3.02.–2.03.2025
Open 24/7, free
Opening: 3.02.25 at 5 pm

Dancing with the Stars! exhibition showcases the designed letters and the process of the class Typography I. During 14 weeks several exercises and experimentations were carried out, drawing was done both by hand and on the computer, using toilet paper, towels, foam and even a metal engraver.

While the first seven weeks were dedicated to experimentation and playing, the last seven focused on creating an entire alphabet and going through the letter design process. Vectorised letters were created, several of which were also made into working font files.

Students:
Simon Janson, Ryan Kaabel, Anni Kangur, Riste Sofie Käär, Jan-Markus Maasepp, Alina Maškina, Elisabeth Mägi, Berit Raun, Mattias Erik Tiik, Rasmus Tikerpe, Katariina Tõnismäe, Mark Albert Villand, Artjom Ševtšenko, Kätriin Reinart, Eline Cremers, Mira Keygnaert, Dennis Vugts

Supervisor:
Agnes Isabelle Veevo

The fonts can be downloaded for free from the SUVA Type Foundry website: suvatypefoundry.ee

Posted by EKA galerii — Permalink

07.02.2025 — 14.02.2025

Phoebe , Wen Lin Wang and Andrea Gudiño at Uus Rada Gallery

We warmly invite you to the opening of the exhibition “This time, my client is Nature” on February 7 at 18:00 at Uus Rada.

What if nature were not just an inspiration but a client—one we must listen to, understand, and collaborate with? This exhibition brings together three artists—Phoebe , Wen Lin Wang and Andrea Gudiño —who each explore the connection between humans and nature through illustration, printing, animation and so on.

Moving from silent observation to active engagement, the exhibition invites visitors to tune into nature’s presence and consider how art can translate their messages. Through their works, the artists create a space where landscapes, flowers, beetles and natural elements are not just subjects but voices in a larger conversation.

Opening 07.02 18:00

Exhibition open: 07.-14.02 14:00-18:00

We look forward to seeing you!

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

Phoebe , Wen Lin Wang and Andrea Gudiño at Uus Rada Gallery

Friday 07 February, 2025 — Friday 14 February, 2025

We warmly invite you to the opening of the exhibition “This time, my client is Nature” on February 7 at 18:00 at Uus Rada.

What if nature were not just an inspiration but a client—one we must listen to, understand, and collaborate with? This exhibition brings together three artists—Phoebe , Wen Lin Wang and Andrea Gudiño —who each explore the connection between humans and nature through illustration, printing, animation and so on.

Moving from silent observation to active engagement, the exhibition invites visitors to tune into nature’s presence and consider how art can translate their messages. Through their works, the artists create a space where landscapes, flowers, beetles and natural elements are not just subjects but voices in a larger conversation.

Opening 07.02 18:00

Exhibition open: 07.-14.02 14:00-18:00

We look forward to seeing you!

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

04.02.2025 — 19.02.2025

Experimental Forms Exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus

EKA Experimental Forms Exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus

“Foam Futures” is an experimental fashion forms exhibition by the fashion, textile, and accessory design students of the Estonian Academy of Arts. Under the guidance of fashion designer Liisi Eesmaa and artist Flo Kasearu, futuristic foam plastic characters have come to life and will take over the Viru Keskus Atrium starting February 4th.

The exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus Atrium invites visitors to reflect on the impact of human-made synthetic materials on the environment. This artistic display, created by students of Estonian Academy of Arts , focuses on the journey of foam plastic – from industrial waste to a nature-hostile “life form” that poisons the environment and gains strength, creating post-apocalyptic landscapes.

The pieces on display were created during a month-long workshop, where packaging industry waste was transformed into unique sculptures. The students manipulated materials using cutting, bubbling, and molding techniques to create both futuristic and organic shapes. Their inspiration was drawn from nature – plants, fungal networks, and strange life forms – reflecting the conflict between human creation and the natural world.

“This exhibition is raw energy and an endless amount of work hours, resulting in these haunting, bubbling, and foaming creations. Like a shadowy-black colony of beings, drawn from the students’ subconscious and rosy dreams,” commented one of the workshop mentors, fashion designer Liisi Eesmaa. “Our goal is to shock just enough and test the boundaries – how large and how colorful does packaging waste in the urban landscape need to be for people to clearly realize that the only way forward is through material recycling. We are thrilled to do this in collaboration with the emerging generation – the talented students of the Estonian Academy of Arts,” said Kristel Martis, Marketing and Communications Manager of Viru Keskus.

“Foam Futures” does not offer answers, but urges visitors to ask: what happens to the waste we create? Do we only notice it when it directly disrupts our lives, or does it silently blend into nature, causing irreversible harm?

The exhibition’s interactive elements – touch walls and sound experiences – take visitors to the heart of the foam plastic and its transformed environment, helping them better understand the impact and longevity of materials in nature.

“The students created incredibly juicy and voluminous accessories! The raw material was delightfully fascinating, and while the process was as always challenging and labor-intensive, the final transformations of the material were incredibly rewarding!” said mentor Flo Kasearu.

The exhibition “Foam Futures” will be open at the Viru Keskus Atrium from February 4th to February 19th.

Admission is free.

*The synthetic PE (polyethylene foam) material widely used in the exhibition is recyclable with modern technology. After its “artistic life,” it can be shredded and converted back into granules, 70% of which can be reused to create new materials.

Event Supporters: VIRU, EKA, Viva-color, Digiprint, Reval Kondiiter, ETTeam Baltic OÜ, AS Norma, Põhjala, WÕLU, Kadrioru Park

Artists: Allan Suomalainen, Anete Aurelie Aas, Halyna Yaroshenko, Hedi Leppik, Helen Tambla, Katriin Raudsepp, Kertu Seestrand, Linda Teemägi, Lucille Gonzalez, Maksim Kapustin, Mihhail Zaytsev, Oskar Tammäe, Pihla Alina Teder, Roosi Mändmaa, Sofia Robbe, Tereza Bláhová

Interior Architects: Airi Anderson, Brigita Praks, Carmen Pikknurm, Helena-Liisa Moks, Janet Kljuzin, Karl Oskar Palo, Kertu Bachmann, Madli Bulgarin, Raigo Tšetšin, Reigo Raal

Form Supervisors: Liisi Eesmaa, Flo Kasearu

Space Creation Supervisor: Annika Kaldoja

Production: Piret Puppart, Cristopher Siniväli, Marion Laev

Graphic Design: Anete Ots, Mariliis Tarja

Artistic Direction of Photos: Liisi Eesmaa

Photographer: Riina Varol

Photographer’s assistant: Karmel Kull

MUAH: Eliise Brigita Mõisamaa

Models: Merzeede (Agency Icon), Sam (E.M.A. Model Management)

Additional Information: piret.puppart@artun.ee

Event Facebook: Event – Vahu Vahel

Photo Link: To be added later

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

Experimental Forms Exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus

Tuesday 04 February, 2025 — Wednesday 19 February, 2025

EKA Experimental Forms Exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus

“Foam Futures” is an experimental fashion forms exhibition by the fashion, textile, and accessory design students of the Estonian Academy of Arts. Under the guidance of fashion designer Liisi Eesmaa and artist Flo Kasearu, futuristic foam plastic characters have come to life and will take over the Viru Keskus Atrium starting February 4th.

The exhibition “Foam Futures” at Viru Keskus Atrium invites visitors to reflect on the impact of human-made synthetic materials on the environment. This artistic display, created by students of Estonian Academy of Arts , focuses on the journey of foam plastic – from industrial waste to a nature-hostile “life form” that poisons the environment and gains strength, creating post-apocalyptic landscapes.

The pieces on display were created during a month-long workshop, where packaging industry waste was transformed into unique sculptures. The students manipulated materials using cutting, bubbling, and molding techniques to create both futuristic and organic shapes. Their inspiration was drawn from nature – plants, fungal networks, and strange life forms – reflecting the conflict between human creation and the natural world.

“This exhibition is raw energy and an endless amount of work hours, resulting in these haunting, bubbling, and foaming creations. Like a shadowy-black colony of beings, drawn from the students’ subconscious and rosy dreams,” commented one of the workshop mentors, fashion designer Liisi Eesmaa. “Our goal is to shock just enough and test the boundaries – how large and how colorful does packaging waste in the urban landscape need to be for people to clearly realize that the only way forward is through material recycling. We are thrilled to do this in collaboration with the emerging generation – the talented students of the Estonian Academy of Arts,” said Kristel Martis, Marketing and Communications Manager of Viru Keskus.

“Foam Futures” does not offer answers, but urges visitors to ask: what happens to the waste we create? Do we only notice it when it directly disrupts our lives, or does it silently blend into nature, causing irreversible harm?

The exhibition’s interactive elements – touch walls and sound experiences – take visitors to the heart of the foam plastic and its transformed environment, helping them better understand the impact and longevity of materials in nature.

“The students created incredibly juicy and voluminous accessories! The raw material was delightfully fascinating, and while the process was as always challenging and labor-intensive, the final transformations of the material were incredibly rewarding!” said mentor Flo Kasearu.

The exhibition “Foam Futures” will be open at the Viru Keskus Atrium from February 4th to February 19th.

Admission is free.

*The synthetic PE (polyethylene foam) material widely used in the exhibition is recyclable with modern technology. After its “artistic life,” it can be shredded and converted back into granules, 70% of which can be reused to create new materials.

Event Supporters: VIRU, EKA, Viva-color, Digiprint, Reval Kondiiter, ETTeam Baltic OÜ, AS Norma, Põhjala, WÕLU, Kadrioru Park

Artists: Allan Suomalainen, Anete Aurelie Aas, Halyna Yaroshenko, Hedi Leppik, Helen Tambla, Katriin Raudsepp, Kertu Seestrand, Linda Teemägi, Lucille Gonzalez, Maksim Kapustin, Mihhail Zaytsev, Oskar Tammäe, Pihla Alina Teder, Roosi Mändmaa, Sofia Robbe, Tereza Bláhová

Interior Architects: Airi Anderson, Brigita Praks, Carmen Pikknurm, Helena-Liisa Moks, Janet Kljuzin, Karl Oskar Palo, Kertu Bachmann, Madli Bulgarin, Raigo Tšetšin, Reigo Raal

Form Supervisors: Liisi Eesmaa, Flo Kasearu

Space Creation Supervisor: Annika Kaldoja

Production: Piret Puppart, Cristopher Siniväli, Marion Laev

Graphic Design: Anete Ots, Mariliis Tarja

Artistic Direction of Photos: Liisi Eesmaa

Photographer: Riina Varol

Photographer’s assistant: Karmel Kull

MUAH: Eliise Brigita Mõisamaa

Models: Merzeede (Agency Icon), Sam (E.M.A. Model Management)

Additional Information: piret.puppart@artun.ee

Event Facebook: Event – Vahu Vahel

Photo Link: To be added later

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

30.01.2025 — 09.02.2025

Kirke Ross “Believe it or not” at VENT SPace

The exhibition space of the Estonian Academy of Arts, VENT Space (Vabaduse väljak 6/8) ends its series of exhibitions with a surreal fairy tale that you either believe or not.

The exhibition “Believe it or not” opens the door to a world where familiar stories can turn into something completely new in the blink of an eye.

Kirke Ross, an artist who graduated from EKA as an animator, interweaves audio and visual art to bring to life strange and imaginative scenarios where the heroes of modern stories meet surreal elements – perhaps here you will come across a bootless cat struggling in the clutches of evil, or you will instead meet Jüri wearing a red cape, following in the footsteps of the lovely Little Red Riding Hood.

The opening of the exhibition will take place on January 30 at 18:00. There is something to drink for the first visitors.

VENT Space’s last exhibition is open from January 31 to February 9, 2025. Every day 12:00-18:00.

Author: Kirke Ross

Curators: Kirke Ross and Katariina Kesküla

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

Kirke Ross “Believe it or not” at VENT SPace

Thursday 30 January, 2025 — Sunday 09 February, 2025

The exhibition space of the Estonian Academy of Arts, VENT Space (Vabaduse väljak 6/8) ends its series of exhibitions with a surreal fairy tale that you either believe or not.

The exhibition “Believe it or not” opens the door to a world where familiar stories can turn into something completely new in the blink of an eye.

Kirke Ross, an artist who graduated from EKA as an animator, interweaves audio and visual art to bring to life strange and imaginative scenarios where the heroes of modern stories meet surreal elements – perhaps here you will come across a bootless cat struggling in the clutches of evil, or you will instead meet Jüri wearing a red cape, following in the footsteps of the lovely Little Red Riding Hood.

The opening of the exhibition will take place on January 30 at 18:00. There is something to drink for the first visitors.

VENT Space’s last exhibition is open from January 31 to February 9, 2025. Every day 12:00-18:00.

Author: Kirke Ross

Curators: Kirke Ross and Katariina Kesküla

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

28.01.2025 — 11.02.2025

“Newfound Type”

On the 28th of January at 18:00 at TYPA Gallery we are opening a new exhibition called “Newfound Type”.

The exhibition highlights practices and phenomena unique to Estonian wood type, aiming to inspire the creation of new local typefaces and innovative printing techniques.

Exhibition “Newfound Type” delves into the unique wood types in the TYPA collection, tracing their history and showcasing historic posters they were used on. The Newfound Type project has developed its own modular type, that was printed on the CNC-Machine, by combining traditional printing methods and historical research with modern technology.

Both historic wood types and the newly created designs will be on display, along with a series of workshops and talks.

This research has been supported by the Estonian Ministry of Culture.

TYPA gallery is open Wed-Sun from 12:00–18:00, free of charge.

More info about the exhibition on our website: https://typa.ee/en/exhibition/exhibition-newfound-type/

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

“Newfound Type”

Tuesday 28 January, 2025 — Tuesday 11 February, 2025

On the 28th of January at 18:00 at TYPA Gallery we are opening a new exhibition called “Newfound Type”.

The exhibition highlights practices and phenomena unique to Estonian wood type, aiming to inspire the creation of new local typefaces and innovative printing techniques.

Exhibition “Newfound Type” delves into the unique wood types in the TYPA collection, tracing their history and showcasing historic posters they were used on. The Newfound Type project has developed its own modular type, that was printed on the CNC-Machine, by combining traditional printing methods and historical research with modern technology.

Both historic wood types and the newly created designs will be on display, along with a series of workshops and talks.

This research has been supported by the Estonian Ministry of Culture.

TYPA gallery is open Wed-Sun from 12:00–18:00, free of charge.

More info about the exhibition on our website: https://typa.ee/en/exhibition/exhibition-newfound-type/

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink

31.01.2025 — 02.03.2025

Katariin Mudist and Keithy Kuuspu “Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time”

You are invited to the opening of Katariin Mudist and Keithy Kuuspu exhibition “Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time” on Friday, 31 January at 6 p.m. in the large gallery of the Tartu Art House.

Register for the art bus to the exhibition opening HERE.

Katariin Mudist’s and Keithy Kuuspu’s exhibition at the Tartu Art House explores the multifaceted phenomenon of giving and receiving awards, delving into the dynamics of recognition within the art world and beyond.

Awards serve as social validation, reinforcing the legitimacy and value of individuals or organisations. From gold stars given to children for good behaviour to lifetime achievement honours, these tokens fulfil a fundamental human need: to feel seen, special and acknowledged. However, this recognition often comes with unintended consequences, fostering competition, comparison and a goal-oriented approach to life. Does praise motivate improvement, or does it become a burden, creating expectations and pressure that hinder future efforts?

“Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time” examines the cyclical nature of recognition, while wryly remaining entangled in these very dynamics. Keithy and Katariin were selected for this exhibition and received funding to implement it. In turn, they chose artists to create trophies and invited directors to distribute them. Who gets to choose, and who is chosen? What lies behind recognition, and what are its broader political and psychological implications?

The show is divided into three distinct spaces: “The Room of Recognition”, “The Room of Awards” and “The Room of the Commission”. Each room tackles different aspects of recognition, using a variety of media and strategies to engage with the theme. A network of exchanges and collaborations is woven throughout the exhibition. Artists conducted interviews with individuals from various fields, including art, literature and sports,
gathering diverse perspectives on the meaning of recognition. Their process expanded to include volunteers who participated in carving chairs and creating the photo series. Finally,
they invited 25 artists to contribute trophies, each celebrating a unique concept. These trophies will be awarded during a public, ininerant performative Awards Gala on 1 March, when five theatre directors will select the winners and distribute the prizes.

Exhibition team:
Exhibition designer and technical help: Alden Jõgisuu
Texts: Laura Cemin
Graphic design: Katariin Mudist
Videographer: Kai Jürimäe
Performance dramaturgy: Keithy Kuuspu and Katariin Mudist

Interviewees: Anu Vahtra, Elo Vahtrik, Elina Masing, Kaarin Kivirähk, Karli Luik, Kreete Verlin, Tõnu Õnnepalu, Urmas Lüüs and Annely Köster.
Award-making artists:
Ingrid Allik, Arvi Anderson, Yvette Bathgate and Jake Shepherd, Zody Burke, Alexei Gordin, Ulvi Haagensen, Tõnis Jürgens, Edith Karlson, Lauri Kilusk, KIWA, Stina Leek, Kris Lemsalu, Anna Mari Liivrand, Laura Linsi, Johannes Luik, Angela Maasalu, Maarja Mäemets, Eke Ao Nettan, Kärt Ojavee, Pelle Org, Anumai Raska, Sander Raudsepp, Taavi Teevet, Marta Vaarik and Kristina Õllek.

Awards Gala directors:
Sveta Grigorjeva, Henri Hütt, Kertu Moppel, Liisa Saaremäel and Oksana Tralla.

Thank you to all the woodcarvers:
Teresa de Andrade, Markus Andreas Auling, Sylvia Burgess, Lilian Maasik, Kristel Jakobson, Juulia Aleksandra Mikson, Sandra Mirka, Eva Nava, Hendrik Ojaveer, Karl-Hendrik Pallo, Teresa RA, Maria Elise Remme, Kristina Sepp,
Rin Togo, Kristi Vendelin, Elin Viisileht, Marce Garcia Viisileht, Anett Vähi, Ethel Ütsmüts;
Photographers of “Important Rooms”: Liisi Aibel, Iris Areda, Kirke Asandi, Gregor Alaküla, Eliisa Matsalu-Alaküla, Valeriya Ferschel, Indrek Grigor, Saara Liis Jõerand, Kristin Kaasik, Elin Kard, Sander Koit, Paul Kuimet, Janeli Kuusemets, Martin Kuusk, Indrek Köster, Johannes Luik, Magdaleena Maasik, Rene Nõmmik, Liisi Kõuhkna, Kristina Milbach, Ann Mäekivi, Karmen Otu, Erik Peterson, Liina Plaado, Alana Proosa, Maarja Eliisabet Roosalu, Evelin Saul-Rämonen, Kristina Sepp, Maret Tamme, Oksana Tralla, Aleksander Tsapov, Kadi-Ell Tähiste, Kristi Vendelin, Mats ja Maris Viisileht, Helen Västrik and special thanks to Lauri Eltermaa, Måns Fridlizius Lindberg, Chloé Geinoz, Johanna Mudist, Terje Mudist, Eva Nava, Kristiina Tinnu Tang, Taavi Tetlov, Mae Variksoo, Liis-Marleen Verilaskja, Elin Viisileht, Alan Voodla, Mart Vainre, Anett Vähi, Kauss Arhitektuur, Koosseis, Tallinna Kergejõustikuhall, Eesti Kunstiakadeemia, Von Krahli Teater, Kanuti Gildi SAAL, Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava ja Tartu Kunstimaja.

The exhibition is supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia, Põhjala Brewery, Punch drinks, Pühaste and Leibur.

The exhibition is open 31 January – 2 March 2025

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Katariin Mudist and Keithy Kuuspu “Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time”

Friday 31 January, 2025 — Sunday 02 March, 2025

You are invited to the opening of Katariin Mudist and Keithy Kuuspu exhibition “Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time” on Friday, 31 January at 6 p.m. in the large gallery of the Tartu Art House.

Register for the art bus to the exhibition opening HERE.

Katariin Mudist’s and Keithy Kuuspu’s exhibition at the Tartu Art House explores the multifaceted phenomenon of giving and receiving awards, delving into the dynamics of recognition within the art world and beyond.

Awards serve as social validation, reinforcing the legitimacy and value of individuals or organisations. From gold stars given to children for good behaviour to lifetime achievement honours, these tokens fulfil a fundamental human need: to feel seen, special and acknowledged. However, this recognition often comes with unintended consequences, fostering competition, comparison and a goal-oriented approach to life. Does praise motivate improvement, or does it become a burden, creating expectations and pressure that hinder future efforts?

“Unfortunately You Were Not Selected This Time” examines the cyclical nature of recognition, while wryly remaining entangled in these very dynamics. Keithy and Katariin were selected for this exhibition and received funding to implement it. In turn, they chose artists to create trophies and invited directors to distribute them. Who gets to choose, and who is chosen? What lies behind recognition, and what are its broader political and psychological implications?

The show is divided into three distinct spaces: “The Room of Recognition”, “The Room of Awards” and “The Room of the Commission”. Each room tackles different aspects of recognition, using a variety of media and strategies to engage with the theme. A network of exchanges and collaborations is woven throughout the exhibition. Artists conducted interviews with individuals from various fields, including art, literature and sports,
gathering diverse perspectives on the meaning of recognition. Their process expanded to include volunteers who participated in carving chairs and creating the photo series. Finally,
they invited 25 artists to contribute trophies, each celebrating a unique concept. These trophies will be awarded during a public, ininerant performative Awards Gala on 1 March, when five theatre directors will select the winners and distribute the prizes.

Exhibition team:
Exhibition designer and technical help: Alden Jõgisuu
Texts: Laura Cemin
Graphic design: Katariin Mudist
Videographer: Kai Jürimäe
Performance dramaturgy: Keithy Kuuspu and Katariin Mudist

Interviewees: Anu Vahtra, Elo Vahtrik, Elina Masing, Kaarin Kivirähk, Karli Luik, Kreete Verlin, Tõnu Õnnepalu, Urmas Lüüs and Annely Köster.
Award-making artists:
Ingrid Allik, Arvi Anderson, Yvette Bathgate and Jake Shepherd, Zody Burke, Alexei Gordin, Ulvi Haagensen, Tõnis Jürgens, Edith Karlson, Lauri Kilusk, KIWA, Stina Leek, Kris Lemsalu, Anna Mari Liivrand, Laura Linsi, Johannes Luik, Angela Maasalu, Maarja Mäemets, Eke Ao Nettan, Kärt Ojavee, Pelle Org, Anumai Raska, Sander Raudsepp, Taavi Teevet, Marta Vaarik and Kristina Õllek.

Awards Gala directors:
Sveta Grigorjeva, Henri Hütt, Kertu Moppel, Liisa Saaremäel and Oksana Tralla.

Thank you to all the woodcarvers:
Teresa de Andrade, Markus Andreas Auling, Sylvia Burgess, Lilian Maasik, Kristel Jakobson, Juulia Aleksandra Mikson, Sandra Mirka, Eva Nava, Hendrik Ojaveer, Karl-Hendrik Pallo, Teresa RA, Maria Elise Remme, Kristina Sepp,
Rin Togo, Kristi Vendelin, Elin Viisileht, Marce Garcia Viisileht, Anett Vähi, Ethel Ütsmüts;
Photographers of “Important Rooms”: Liisi Aibel, Iris Areda, Kirke Asandi, Gregor Alaküla, Eliisa Matsalu-Alaküla, Valeriya Ferschel, Indrek Grigor, Saara Liis Jõerand, Kristin Kaasik, Elin Kard, Sander Koit, Paul Kuimet, Janeli Kuusemets, Martin Kuusk, Indrek Köster, Johannes Luik, Magdaleena Maasik, Rene Nõmmik, Liisi Kõuhkna, Kristina Milbach, Ann Mäekivi, Karmen Otu, Erik Peterson, Liina Plaado, Alana Proosa, Maarja Eliisabet Roosalu, Evelin Saul-Rämonen, Kristina Sepp, Maret Tamme, Oksana Tralla, Aleksander Tsapov, Kadi-Ell Tähiste, Kristi Vendelin, Mats ja Maris Viisileht, Helen Västrik and special thanks to Lauri Eltermaa, Måns Fridlizius Lindberg, Chloé Geinoz, Johanna Mudist, Terje Mudist, Eva Nava, Kristiina Tinnu Tang, Taavi Tetlov, Mae Variksoo, Liis-Marleen Verilaskja, Elin Viisileht, Alan Voodla, Mart Vainre, Anett Vähi, Kauss Arhitektuur, Koosseis, Tallinna Kergejõustikuhall, Eesti Kunstiakadeemia, Von Krahli Teater, Kanuti Gildi SAAL, Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava ja Tartu Kunstimaja.

The exhibition is supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia, Põhjala Brewery, Punch drinks, Pühaste and Leibur.

The exhibition is open 31 January – 2 March 2025

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12.01.2025 — 02.02.2025

Rebeka Kruus “Pink Cakes at the Market” at Keskpuur

Until February 2nd, Keskpuur Gallery hosts a solo exhibition by EKA animation master’s student Rebeka Kruus, titled “Pink Cakes at the Market.”

Priisle Market, which closed in 2014 symbolizes the bittersweet nature of change and the feeling of not recognizing the places where you once grew up. The pink-glazed cakes, with their vibrant, sugary tops, evoke a sense of a bygone era, a time that’s now faded but still carries a sense of longing.

Plans to rebuild the Central Market are set to begin in 2025. Now is your chance to savor a slice of nostalgia. Later, it just won’t feel the same.

Curator: Kaur Järve

Exhibitions at the Keskpuur Gallery are supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia.

Keskpuur Gallery

Keldrimäe 9, 2nd Floor, Tallinn

Wed–Sun, 8 AM–3:30 PM

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Rebeka Kruus “Pink Cakes at the Market” at Keskpuur

Sunday 12 January, 2025 — Sunday 02 February, 2025

Until February 2nd, Keskpuur Gallery hosts a solo exhibition by EKA animation master’s student Rebeka Kruus, titled “Pink Cakes at the Market.”

Priisle Market, which closed in 2014 symbolizes the bittersweet nature of change and the feeling of not recognizing the places where you once grew up. The pink-glazed cakes, with their vibrant, sugary tops, evoke a sense of a bygone era, a time that’s now faded but still carries a sense of longing.

Plans to rebuild the Central Market are set to begin in 2025. Now is your chance to savor a slice of nostalgia. Later, it just won’t feel the same.

Curator: Kaur Järve

Exhibitions at the Keskpuur Gallery are supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia.

Keskpuur Gallery

Keldrimäe 9, 2nd Floor, Tallinn

Wed–Sun, 8 AM–3:30 PM

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16.01.2025 — 07.03.2025

Kati Müüripeal “Rain Drops, That Did Not Fall from the Paris Leaves”

On 16th of January at 6 pm Tallinn University Academic Library shall open the first substantial solo exhibition of painter Kati Müüripeal. The works presented within the exhibition have been created in 2020-2025 using mainly oil paints.

The works express a unique visual language of the artist that can be described as abstract, disunited with the focus on details and dialogue between specific color combinations. The artist is intrigued by the color blue and its occurrence within different cultures. Inspiration for works have been greatly derived by the nature surrounding the artist birth home. The Paris plant, the autumn smog, “Generation P” by Viktor pelevin (1999), “The Nightingale and the Rose” by O. Wilde (1888) and the time spent in Abisko within KUNO programme have been the main influence on the artists work so far.

The artist has graduated her bachelors programme in Faculty of Fine Arts and Master of Contemporary Arts (cum laude) at Estonian Academy of Arts.

Location Rävala pst 10, 15042 Tallinn

Opening 16.01 from 6pm

Open for visit 17.01.-07.03.2025

Curator: Liisi Kõuhkna

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Kati Müüripeal “Rain Drops, That Did Not Fall from the Paris Leaves”

Thursday 16 January, 2025 — Friday 07 March, 2025

On 16th of January at 6 pm Tallinn University Academic Library shall open the first substantial solo exhibition of painter Kati Müüripeal. The works presented within the exhibition have been created in 2020-2025 using mainly oil paints.

The works express a unique visual language of the artist that can be described as abstract, disunited with the focus on details and dialogue between specific color combinations. The artist is intrigued by the color blue and its occurrence within different cultures. Inspiration for works have been greatly derived by the nature surrounding the artist birth home. The Paris plant, the autumn smog, “Generation P” by Viktor pelevin (1999), “The Nightingale and the Rose” by O. Wilde (1888) and the time spent in Abisko within KUNO programme have been the main influence on the artists work so far.

The artist has graduated her bachelors programme in Faculty of Fine Arts and Master of Contemporary Arts (cum laude) at Estonian Academy of Arts.

Location Rävala pst 10, 15042 Tallinn

Opening 16.01 from 6pm

Open for visit 17.01.-07.03.2025

Curator: Liisi Kõuhkna

Posted by Andres Lõo — Permalink