Until April 13th, 2025, the Palazzo d’Accursio in Bologna, Italy, hosts Cittadini Creativi, a curated exhibition by Bianka Soe showcasing the diversity of Estonian illustration and animation. This exhibition is part of Estonia’s Guest of Honour programme at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and the city-wide festival Boom! Crescere nei Libri.
“The exhibition presents works by both, renowned book artists and emerging illustrators and animators. Estonian illustration is known for its experimental approach, subtle humor, and deep-rooted literary tradition. I believe this will be an engaging visual experience for visitors of all ages,” says curator Bianka Soe.
At Cittadini Creativi (Creative Citizens), vibrant book characters step beyond the pages, embodying the essence of a good city – a place that nurtures creativity and embraces the uniqueness of its inhabitants. The exhibition invites visitors to meet distinctive characters and explore the dynamic relationship between illustration and the urban environment.
The participating illustrators include Katrin Ehrlich, Heiki Ernits, Anu Kalm, Kristi Kangilaski, Tiiu Kitsik, Karel Korp, Liisa Kruusmägi, Kadri-Maria Külaots, Madli Lavin, Regina Lukk-Toompere, Lumimari, Viive Noor, Sirly Oder, Eiko Ojala, Triin Paumer, Anne Pikkov, Marja-Liisa Plats, Priit Pärn, Piret Raud, Jaan Rõõmus, Ulla Saar, Pamela Samel, Elina Sildre, Joonas Sildre, Kertu Sillaste, Marju Tammik, Reda Tomingas, Kristina Tort, and Catherine Zarip.
The exhibition also features animations by Liisi Grünberg, Jaakop Ivask, Lyza Järvis, Uku Jürgenson, Rebeka Kruus, Elise Kruusel, Ida Lepparu, Kaimar Lomp, Cristo Madissoo, Eiko Ojala, Rael Pikkel, Piret Potter, Maria Rakitina, Lilli-Krõõt Repnau, Mia Rulli, Stella Salumaa, Kadi Sing, Kelly Tõnurist, and Elli Zahradnikova.
The graphic and exhibition design has been created by Mikk Heinsoo (Stuudio Stuudio), with architects Karin Tõugu and Triin Vaino (b210). The exhibition is organized by the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre and the Estonian Publishers’ Association, with support from the Estonian Ministry of Culture, the Estonian Embassy in Rome, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, the City of Bologna, and Hamelin.
For more information, visit the official website of Estonia’s Guest of Honour programme.
