Tallinn Exhibition Celebrates 70 Years of Estonian Stop-Motion Magic
A new exhibition in Tallinn is celebrating 70 years of Estonian stop-motion animation. The display at Solaris Center features intricate figurines and sets from Nukufilm, one of the country's most renowned studios. Organisers describe it as a rare chance to see the craftsmanship behind some of Estonia's best-loved animated works.
The show coincides with Estonian Film Month, a fresh initiative to expand the annual Estonian Film Day on April 30. This year's event marks 112 years since Johannes Pääsuke's documentary Utochkin's Flight (Over Tartu), which captured Estonia's first motorised flight in 1912. Nukufilm has produced over 200 films since its founding, creating around 5,000 unique figures along the way. The studio is known for its meticulous attention to detail, with many of its pieces stored as works of art. The exhibition brings some of these carefully preserved items out of storage, allowing visitors to examine their craftsmanship firsthand.
Märt Kivi, CEO of Nukufilm, called the event a 'fantastic opportunity' for the public to engage with the studio's legacy. The display traces the evolution of Estonian animation, showcasing how techniques and styles have developed over seven decades. While the exhibit does not delve into technical advancements or international collaborations, it offers a close-up look at the studio's most iconic creations.
Estonian Film Month, organised by the Estonian Film Institute, builds on the existing tradition of Estonian Film Day. That day honours Pääsuke's 1912 film, which documented test pilot Sergei Utochkin's historic flight over Tartu. The month-long celebration now aims to establish a broader annual event, highlighting Estonia's rich cinematic history through screenings, talks, and exhibitions like the one at Solaris Center. The exhibition runs as part of a wider effort to promote Estonian cinema. Visitors can explore the artistry behind Nukufilm's stop-motion work, from delicate figurines to elaborate sets. The event also reinforces the country's growing tradition of celebrating its film heritage beyond a single day.
