Photo: Berta Jänes
Exhibition 'Forests and Waters'
Saturday, 21. oct 2023
A joint exhibition on the history of Estonian jewellery by jewellery artist Kärt Summatavet and Estonia’s oldest goldsmith company Roman Tavast in the participation hall of the Estonian National Museum.
The idea for the exhibition – contemporary jewellery rooted in national heritage – emerged from the need to understand and value Estonian jewellery art in the new temporal context of modern issues. Our jewellery art is firmly based on a deep respect for local spiritual heritage.Estonian jewellery artists and metalsmiths have created works based on national heritage across different periods – always in a unique way and at a high artistic level. Among them are a number of highly experienced artists who, in their artistic creations, skilfully combine folk art motifs with intricate craftsmanship. Some of them are daring innovators. Some are free interpreters of universal themes. Others are harmonisers of the relationship between man and nature, values and the future.
During challenging times, the role of the artist becomes especially prominent. An artist is able to reveal the values and harmony hidden within the vast realms of imagination and cognition, which are often overshadowed by the commotion of daily life. Metalsmiths use fire, water, air, materials and tools to shape mental space and forge new realms of meaning. Jewellery artists reveal the human desire for strength and beauty, delicacy and ardour.
The exhibition features four thematic displays that shed light on the history of Estonian jewellery art, from prehistory to present day. Read more about the exhibition here.
The exhibition is open in the participation hall of the Estonian National Museum at the permanent exhibition ‘Encounters’ from 21 October 2023 to 31 March 2024.