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

9.6.2026 | Culture

Tallinn’s Oldest Museum Celebrates an Anniversary

Tallinn’s Oldest Museum Celebrates an Anniversary

If you think Tallinn’s oldest museum is located in the Old Town, think again. That distinction belongs to Peter the … Read more

8.6.2026 | Culture

Exciting events in Estonia this week

Exciting events in Estonia this week

10–12 June, Estonian Fashion Festival, Viljandi and Tartu Estonia’s largest annual event dedicated to sustainable fashion and responsible consumption. The … Read more

7.6.2026 | Culture

Tallinn Guitar Festival 2026

Tallinn Guitar Festival 2026

For the 21st time, the Tallinn Guitar Festival will take place from 7–12 June at several venues across Tallinn. Founded … Read more

5.6.2026 | Culture

Stencibility Once Again Creates New Urban Art for Tartu’s Streets

Stencibility Once Again Creates New Urban Art for Tartu’s Streets

Tartu will once again become an international hub of street art when the Stencibility Festival takes place in the university … Read more

5.6.2026 | Culture

Estonian Fashion Festival 2026

Estonian Fashion Festival 2026

The Estonian Fashion Festival is Estonia’s largest annual event dedicated to sustainable fashion. This year it will take place from … Read more

4.6.2026 | Culture

Jewels of the Serlachius Art Collection at the Magnificent Kadriorg Palace

Jewels of the Serlachius Art Collection at the Magnificent Kadriorg Palace

This summer, visitors strolling through Tallinn’s Kadriorg Park may be delighted to see Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s painting “Spring” fluttering on the … Read more

3.6.2026 | Culture

Kings of Leon Live in Tallinn

Kings of Leon Live in Tallinn

Kings of Leon are one of the biggest bands to come out of the early 21st century music scene in … Read more

2.6.2026 | Culture

Joy From Related Languages Across Borders

Joy From Related Languages Across Borders

  “Rõõmu sugulaskeeltest—Sukukielistä riemua”, or in English “Joy From Related Languages”, is a popular non-fiction book published in 2025 about … Read more