We know Estonia
29.2.2024 | Culture

A street art exhibition depicting Tallinn at war

Text Susanna Poikela
Photos Rebeca Parbus, Estookin

A street art exhibition depicting Tallinn at war

 

A street art exhibition that consists of fictitious images depicting a war-ravaged modern Tallinn are now visible around the city. The works on large advertising billboards have been placed in the immediate vicinity of the buildings presented in them, which creates an unreal and even shocking art experience. The pieces are the handiwork of artists Rebeca Parbus and Estookin.

The Tallinn visible in the exhibition entitled “Hetk” is bombed and full of smoking ruins. The works have received a mixed reception from locals. Some have praised the pieces, while others have found them shocking. Why did the artists feel it was necessary to depict Tallinn under bombardment?

“Thinking about how unbalanced our world is at the moment, I realised that I have taken everything around me for granted. Starting with freedom and independence, ending with food on the table and a roof over our heads. There is a lot to be grateful for,” described artist Rebeca Parbus to ERR.

“These works reflect views that we don’t see in our urban landscapes. How much we appreciate those moments when everything is fine,” added Estookin.

The works of the Hetk exhibition have been set up in Mustamäe, Õismäe, and Lasnamäe districts. The street art will remain on display until March 3. 

 

 

 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Art Exhibition Culture Estookin Photo Art Rebeca Parbus Street Art War

5.9.2026 | Culture

Mary’s Fair, or Maarjalaat, in Tartu

Mary’s Fair, or Maarjalaat, in Tartu

Early every autumn the city of Tartu in Southern Estonia holds its annual fair, called Maarjalaat in Estonian and Mary’s … Read more

4.9.2026 | Culture

Estonian Bread Day at Tallinn’s Open Air Museum

Estonian Bread Day at Tallinn’s Open Air Museum

Black bread, rye bread, dark bread…Estonian leib has many translations, and there are many recipes and varieties. On 20 September … Read more

4.9.2026 | Culture

Disainiöö Fills Põhjala Factory with Design

Disainiöö Fills Põhjala Factory with Design

The Disainiöö festival, the largest celebration of design in the Baltic countries, will take place in Tallinn for the 21st … Read more

3.9.2026 | Culture

Pikk Street Festival 2026

Pikk Street Festival 2026

Pikk Street in Tallinn is arguably the longest and most-travelled street in the Old Town. It stretches from the northern … Read more

2.9.2026 | Culture

A Day of Greenhouses, Gardens, and Verandas in Northern Estonia

A Day of Greenhouses, Gardens, and Verandas in Northern Estonia

Visitors will be welcome across Northern Estonia to visit greenhouses, gardens, and verandas on 6 September from 11:00 until 17:00. … Read more

31.8.2026 | Culture

Exciting events in Estonia this week

Exciting events in Estonia this week

3–6 September Station Narva Festival, Narva A diverse selection of music by Estonian and international performers at the Narva Castle … Read more

30.8.2026 | Culture

Autumn Jazz Festival Starts Soon

Autumn Jazz Festival Starts Soon

Sügisjazz, which is known in English as Autumn Jazz, is the autumn concert season organised by Jazzkaar. It will return … Read more

28.8.2026 | Culture

Wandering Lights Festival Turns 20

Wandering Lights Festival Turns 20

In the middle of September, when the nights are fully dark once more, Kadriorg Park in Tallinn will light up … Read more