The exhibition “Estonian Culture Poster 2013” organised by Haapsalu Graphic Design Festival (HGDF) was put together from the works submitted to a competition. 257 posters by 43 active artists were submitted to the contest for posters which introduce different cultural events and were made during 2011-2013.

It has become a tradition to hold a biennale-style overview exhibition of the trends on the local poster art scene every 2 years. A professional jury selected the 100 best culture posters to be displayed at HGDF 2013.

The collection of Estonian posters emphasises different local cultural events and gives a more diverse and fascinating overview than, for example, looking at posters made only for Tallinn. The collection provides solid proof that poster art is not dead – it enlivens our environment and has not yet permanently degenerated to the level of internet illustration.

Another important aspect of the poster collection is that it brings together artists from different generations. Old masters Andrei Kormashov, Silver Vahtre, Marko Kekishev and Urmas Villmann show that they are still going strong. Newcomers are also represented, for example, the works by the music and theatre person Ivar Põllu. Professional works by Martin Rästa, Martus Tamm, Martin Pedanik and Dmitri Makonnen who has both Estonian and Russian roots please the eye. Young authors also display remarkable skill – Eiko Ojala, Ander Avila, Tauri Birken, Keidi Rehe, etc.

The authors featured at this year’s poster collection are: Ander Avila, Tauri Birken, Dan Mikkin, Kätlin Kaljuvee, Dmitri Makonnen, Martin Eelma, Egon Erkmann, Eiko Ojala, Gabriela Liivamägi, Henry Griin, Ivar Põllu, Jaan Evart, Tuuli Aule, Lauri Järvlepp, Keidi Rehe, Marko Kekishev, Kertu Oja, Andrei Kormashov, Kristjan Kirsfeldt, Laura Ollo, Maren Poel, Margit Randmäe, Maria Laanelepp, Lauri Vasar, Martin Veisman, Mihkel Teemaa, Olya Levistova, Martin Pedanik, Janno Preesalu, Piia Põldmaa, Maret Põldre, Martin Rästa, Silver Vahtre, Margus Tamm, Arbo Tammiksaar, Alar Orav, Kaarel Kala, Uku Küttis, Valter Jakovski, Urmas Villmann, Kristjan Luiga, Neeme Möll, Villu Järmut.

Surprises regarding the events which have taken place in Estonia and what kind of awesome posters are made here are guaranteed. Thus, it is worth checking the exhibition out in person. The exhibition is supported by the Estonian Graphic Designers’ Union and the Cultural Endowment of Estonia.