New and Ongoing Exhibitions in Tallinn

Banksy in Tallinn! This summer, visit Tallinn to see the works of the world-renowned street artist Banksy! “The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind” is a hugely successful international exhibition that has brought over 2.2 million visitors to major European cities since its debut in Munich in March 2021. The exhibition is open at Telliskivi’s M-Building from 5 July to 27 October 2024.

In 2024, Estonia legalised same-sex marriage and same-sex couples’ right to adopt. The Kumu Art Museum commemorates this historically significant step with the exhibition Elisarion, which examines LGBTQ+ themes in the works of two artists from different eras. In the exhibition, Elisàr von Kupffer’s (1872–1942) homoerotic paintings, influenced by ancient and Renaissance art, are in dialogue with contemporary works by Jaanus Samma (b. 1982), who explores the sexuality of Estonian peasants and queers folk art.

Kumu Art Museum – Elisarion. Elisàr von Kupffer and Jaanus Samma

The exhibition brings together the works of the Baltic-German artist Elisàr von Kupffer (1872–1942) and the Estonian artist Jaanus Samma (b. 1982). Kupffer, who was born near Ambla, was a visionary and a versatile creator. The exhibition combines historical and contemporary art, exploring the creative contributions of both artists and the mutual dialogue between their works.

The exhibition is open from 22 March to 8 September 2024.

Kumu Art Museum – History and Mystery: Latin American Art and Europe

The exhibition features works by Latin American and European artists, exploring the connections between mysticism and history. It combines different art styles and periods while emphasising intercultural dialogues. The participating artists offer a rich visual experience, inviting viewers to consider historical narratives and mystical elements.

The exhibition is open from 21 June to 3 November 2024.

Kumu Art Museum – Leonora Carrington

The exhibition features the works of Leonora Carrington (1917–2011), a surrealist painter and sculptor. Her pieces combine fantasy and mythological elements, providing viewers with an intriguing and dreamlike experience. The exhibition focuses on Carrington's life and work, highlighting her contributions to the surrealism movement, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2024.

The exhibition is open from 21 June to 3 November 2024.

Kumu Art Museum – Jevgeni Zolotko: The Secret of Adam

This exhibition by one of the most idiosyncratic contemporary artists in Estonia, Jevgeni Zolotko, explores existential themes such as the relationship between life and death. The artist uses a variety of media, including installations and sculptures, to create a profound and thought-provoking environment.

The exhibition is open from 31 May 2024 to 5 January 2025.

Kumu Art Museum – Katja Novitskova. Earth Potential

Katja Novitskova's exhibition in the Kumu courtyard explores the future of the Earth and the impact of technology on nature. Novitskova's installations combine digital and physical elements, resulting in thought-provoking images that invite viewers to investigate ecological and technological narratives.

The exhibition is open from 1 May to 29 September 2024.

Kumu Art Museum – Guardians of Morality and Women of Passion: The Image of Sex Work in Estonian Art in the First Half of the 20th Century

The exhibition focuses on depictions of sex work and morality in Estonian art from the first half of the twentieth century. It explores how artists addressed sexuality and moral norms, providing insights into the social and cultural issues of the era.

The exhibition is open from 25 April to 25 August 2024.

Kadriorg Art Museum – España Blanca y Negra: Vision of Spain, from Fortuny to Picasso

The exhibition focuses on the depiction of Spanish landscapes in 19th and 20th century art. It includes works by well-known artists such as Mariano Fortuny and Pablo Picasso, which reflect the variety of Spain's natural landscapes and cultural changes. The exhibition showcases a variety of styles and techniques, providing visitors with a rich visual experience.

The exhibition is open from 13 April to 25 August 2024.

Mikkel Museum – The Kügelgens: The Story of one Baltic-German Family

The exhibition showcasing the Kügelgen family's history and work begins in 1798, when the artist brothers arrived here from Germany, and concludes in the 1980s. It includes works by the family's most well-known members as well as related items that provide an overview of their contributions to Estonian and German culture.

The exhibition is open from 25 May to 29 September 2024.

Adamson-Eric Museum – (Un)Balanced

This contemporary art exhibition invites viewers to consider issues related to mental health and wellbeing. How can we maintain a comfortable balance between joy and sorrow, work and leisure? Why do things occasionally fall out of balance?

The exhibition is open from 23 February until 13 October 2024.

Museum of Photography – Gendered Lens

The new theme year at the Museum of Photography will be focusing on the body and its depiction in photography. The exhibition “Gendered Lens” showcases works from the beginnings of photography in Estonia to the digital age, including nudes and portraits that reflect the history of artistic, technical and cultural changes. On display are rare and previously unseen photographs.

The exhibition will be open from 24 May 2024.

Museum of Photography Gallery Seek – The Body

The exhibition explores the depiction of the body and its significance in Estonian photographic art. It looks at the body as an object of artistic and social inquiry, displaying works from various eras and artists. On display are both historical and contemporary photographs, offering new perspectives on themes of body and identity.

The exhibition is open from 6 June to 30 September 2024.

Juhan Kuus Documentary Photo Centre – Strangely Familiar – Alexander Janetzko and Anna Lehespalu

Alexander Janetzko and Anna Lehespalu's photographs capture intimate moments from everyday life. The exhibition delves into their creative collaboration and how both artists capture familiar yet mysterious moments.

The exhibition is open from 9 May to 4 August 2024.

Fotografiska – a faraway shining star, twinkling in hand. Rinko Kawauchi

The exhibition features photographs, videos and light boxes that create a delicate and dreamy atmosphere. Kawauchi's work focuses on poetically capturing everyday moments, inspiring viewers to reflect on the beauty of nature. The author's original poems enrich the exhibition.

The exhibition is open from 24 May to 8 September 2024.

Fotografiska – In Bloom. In Bloom

The exhibition focuses on nature as both an aesthetic and symbolic force. The works use a blend of contemporary photography, video, sculpture and installations to highlight the beauty, fragility and diversity of nature. The exhibition includes works by 17 contemporary artists, including Estonian artist Heikki Leis. The exhibition also marks the 5th anniversary of Fotografiska Tallinn.

The exhibition is open from 7 June to 27 October 2024.

Fotografiska – Kary H. Lasch. The Golden Years

This exhibition showcases the works of photographer and collector Kary H. Lasch (1914–1993). Lasch photographed celebrities from the 1950s, including Pablo Picasso, Sophia Loren and Salvador Dalí. The exhibition captures the spirit of the era. About 75 works and selected personal items are on display, providing a detailed look into Lasch's work and lifestyle.

The exhibition is open from 20 April to 8 September 2024.

Fotografiska – Fractured Delights. Wang Chen

The exhibition combines digital video, performance and sound design to create alternate realities and dreamscapes. Wang Chen probes into the intersections of myths, imagination and identity, creating an immersive and explorative fantasy world. The exhibition addresses complex themes such as identity and belonging, encouraging visitors to explore the possibilities provided by the virtual world.

The exhibition is open from 15 March to 8 September 2024.

Tallinn TV Tower – Eiffel, Always Higher

The traveling exhibition from Paris “Eiffel, Always Higher” celebrates the 135th birthday of the Eiffel Tower. The exhibition provides a historical overview of Gustave Eiffel's work and engineering achievements, with 12 panels detailing the construction and endurance of the Eiffel Tower. This screen-free exhibition is accessible to visually impaired people via description translation.

The exhibition is open from 18 April to 30 September 2024.

Estonian History Museum – Maarjamäe Stables – Me, Estonian! An Exhibition about Bold People

The exhibition's central theme is the stories of foreigners who settled in Estonia after its re-independence and now consider it their homeland. People from Venezuela, Japan, France, Georgia, the Czech Republic, Turkey and other parts of the world who have relocated to Estonia are featured in the exhibition, with each sharing their personal journey as well as two items– one reflecting their origin and national identity and the other symbolising Estonia for them.

The exhibition is open from 7 June 2024 to 8 June 2025.

The Estonian History Museum’s Maarjamäe Palace – Inclusion or isolation? Multi-ethnic Estonia

The exhibition invites you to think about the multi-ethnic history of Estonia, the organisation of diverse societies and the rights of minorities. It addresses integration, identity and intercultural communication, providing a profound insight into the lives of various ethnic groups in Estonia. The main focus is on the intriguing historical periods of Jews and Baltic Germans who have established their own cultural governance in Estonia.

The exhibition is open from 10 April 2024 to 2 March 2025.

The Seaplane Harbour – Destroyers Lennuk and Wambola: In service of multiple nations

The exhibition at the recently renovated Seaplane Harbour delves into the history of Estonian destroyers Lennuk and Wambola, as well as their roles and service in two different countries: Estonia and Peru. Photos, documents and artefacts depict the ships' adventures and military operations. The exhibition highlights the diverse history and significance of these destroyers in Estonian and Peruvian maritime history.
The exhibition is open from 12 May to 1 September 2024.

Tallinn City Life Museum – Dinner is served!

The exhibition focuses on the evolution and traditions of Estonian food culture, displaying dishes, celebrations and eating habits from various eras and taking visitors on a flavourful journey through time. Tableware, recipes and food-related items are on display to illustrate the diversity of Estonian cuisine.

The exhibition is open from 11 May to 29 December 2024.

Kalamaja museum – Magical Realism of Kopli

The exhibition reveals the unique atmosphere and history of the Kopli district, combining artistic displays and historical photographs to depict the life and distinctiveness of Kopli. The exhibition includes works by both well-known and lesser-known artists, providing a profound and poetic look into everyday life in Kopli. In May 2024, Kalamaja Museum received the Silletto Award of the European Museum of the Year Award, which recognises community participation and engagement.

The exhibition is open from 26 April 2024 to 30 April 2026.

Niguliste Museum – There and Back: The Pilgrimages of Livonians in Medieval Europe

The exhibition presents the destinations of medieval pilgrimages, the motives of the travellers and their experiences along the way. It includes historical artefacts, documents and artworks, providing an overview of the significance of pilgrimages and their impact on Livonian culture and religion.

The exhibition is open from 9 March to 8 September 2024.

Estonian History Museum. The Great Guid Hall – Why is Estonia not a kingdom?

Museum of Estonian Architecture – Estonian Theatrical Buildings

The exhibition allows visitors to trace the evolution of Estonian theatre architecture from the early 19th century to the present day. On display are projects of both well-known and lesser-known theatre buildings from history and the present, discussing their cultural and architectural significance. The exhibition also tells the stories of theatre buildings destroyed after WWII and those built during the Soviet era.

The exhibition is open from 17 May to 22 September 2024.

Museum of Estonian Architecture – Linnahall Forever

The exhibition looks at the architectural and historical significance of Linnahall in Tallinn. It focuses on the building's design, history of use, and symbolic value in Tallinn's cityscape, particularly during the 1980s, when views from the Linnahall rooftop terrace provided glimpses of freedom.

The exhibition is open from 1 June to 22 September 2024.

Theatre and Music Museum – Astounding stories about theatre and music

The centennial exhibition of the Estonian Theatre and Music Museum highlights colourful and often surprising stories from Estonian theatre and music life. Rare items, documents and photographs are on display, telling the stories of both famous and unknown figures and events. For the first time, the entire building of the museum is opened to the public, allowing them to explore rooms where the archives used to be and where historians once worked.

The exhibition is open from 23 March to 31 August 2024.

The Estonian Museum of Applied Art and Design  and the Town Jail Photography Museum in the Old Town are open until 20:00 on Thursdays.

Fotografiska is open until 20:00 from Monday-Saturday and until 18:00 on Sundays.

The Kadriorg Art Museum and the Mikkel Museum in Kadriorg are places that can be enjoyed into the evening on Wednesdays as both museums are open until 20:00, while the Kumu Art Museum is open until 20:00 on Thursdays.

The Kalamaja museum is open until 20:00 on both Wednesdays and Thursdays.

If you plan on visiting several museums whilst enjoying a comfortable visit in the city and want to save time and money, get the Tallinn Card. You can buy the card for a validity period of 24, 48, or 72 hours and it allows you to visit nearly 50 of Tallinn's top museums and attractions. The card also includes free travel on public transport in Tallinn and discounts on tours, entertainment venues, restaurants and shops.

We recommend purchasing the Tallinn Card via the mobile app – this way you will receive personalised visit recommendations and easily find your way to all the interesting attractions using the convenient map function of the app.

Extra tip: with the Tallinn Card you can skip the line at the Tallinn TV Tower, Tallinn Zoo and Estonian Open Air Museum.

NOBA is an international web platform where exhibitions of contemporary art in Tallinn and other nearby cities are gathered together. The website includes an interactive map that allows you to find exhibitions that are open for a limited time in both larger and smaller galleries. The calendar's content is created in collaboration with exhibition establishments, who input the information themselves. The NOBA team ensures that all major exhibitions are available online.

View NOBA's exhibition map here: https://noba.ac/et/naitustekaart/