Galleries
Visiting an art gallery in Estonia allows you to appreciate art and examine the world from a new perspective — and perhaps find a piece to take home.
Art galleries around Estonia are like buried treasures waiting to be discovered.
Many galleries provide platforms for local artists to exhibit their work, others feature international artists, and some do both. Though Tallinn may have the highest concentration of galleries, there are plenty in surprising corners of the country — in community centers, old barns, and private homes.
And if after visiting the exhibition you get an overflowing burst of inspiration, then try a workshop where you can let your creativity flow!
Tallinn and North Estonia
In and around Estonia's capital, galleries have sprung up like mushrooms in the forest after the rain. For example, the Rataskaevu 6 Art Gallery in Tallinn's Old Town exhibits a wide range of works in a colorful, relaxed atmosphere. ArtDepoo, on the other hand, introduces the latest Estonian art. It is located in the former Norma tin factory, whose history, location, and architecture add value to the gallery.
Exciting gems are also waiting to be discovered in Ida-Viru County. Jõhvi City Gallery's exhibits reflect contemporary art trends, with at least one foreign art exhibition every year. Narva Art Residency is located in the historic Kreenholm area and features exhibits by artists from Estonia and abroad who work in visual arts, music, performance art, design, and other mediums.
Source: Rasmus Jurkatam
Galleries in Tallinn and North Estonia
Central and South Estonia
You can't spell Tartu without ART! Be sure to visit the Kogo Gallery, which focuses primarily on younger artists. Gallery Pallas of the Pallas University of Applied Sciences exhibits the creations of Pallas students, teachers, alumni, and partners. With exhibitions changing every five weeks, it's worth frequent return visits.
The Rüki Gallery in Viljandi aims to introduce the work of professional Estonian artists to locals and visitors from other parts of Estonia and the rest of the world.
Central Estonian Art Gallery pART is located in the Põltsamaa Castle complex, but visiting requires a bit of bravery as it is an unheated space. As they say, though, ART is not afraid of the cold! Every month, the gallery hosts a new exhibition.
Gallery Voronja exhibits contemporary art in an old fisherman's boat shed every summer. The location in Varnja, an Old Believers' village near Lake Peipsi, makes it a popular destination for art lovers. The sculpture park in the garden is open year-round.
Source: Hans Markus Antson
Central & South Estonian galleries
West Estonia and the islands
The Pärnu City Gallery, located inside the historic Town Hall, has been operating for nearly 30 years and is a staple in the Pärnu art scene. The Endla Theater Gallery has a unique proposition—it exhibits works by artists who work or plan to work in the world of theater.
The Nelja Nurga Gallery in Hiiumaa is dedicated to work by artists from Hiiumaa or with a connection to Hiiumaa. The gallery goes beyond paintings and displays art in various mediums, including photography, sculpture, ceramics, and glass.
In Saaremaa, Humala Studio & Gallery is the home studio of artist Külliki Järvila. Her work is available for purchase, but if you want to see how her drawings are printed, then you need to book ahead. Saaremaa Art Studio is a gallery, art school, and creative space. You can visit exhibitions, buy art in the pop-up shop, and look at the ceramics made on-site. There are even studios that can be rented for creative work and product presentations.
In Haapsalu, the Epp Maria Gallery, dedicated to one of Estonia's most famous artists, is worth visiting. Exhibitions change with the seasons, and you can also view paintings and furniture created by her husband Jaak Arro, ceramics made by Liisu Arro and the work of Imbi Lind.
Source: Marko Toomast, Visit Pärnu
Galleries in West Estonia and on the islands
Want to create your own art?
After visiting the exhibitions, you may have an irresistible desire to plunge into the creative process. Find the medium that makes your fingers itch to get to work and sign up for one of these workshops.
Source: Hans Markus Antson
Arts & crafts workshops in Estonia
Need something for your wall at home?
In addition to enjoying the artists' works in the gallery, it is often possible to buy them — and it's the best way to support the local art scene. Not only will you have something unique and inspiring for your home or office, but you'll also have a piece that brings back fond memories of your trip to Estonia. And who knows? You might just be able to snatch up a piece by an unknown artist who turns out to be the next big thing!
Source: Toomas Tuul
Where to shop for art and handicrafts in Estonia
Discover more museums and exhibitions in Estonia
Last updated
11.10.2024