February 23 is Estonian Design Day. The event draws attention to local designers and their work, which has gained international recognition despite various challenges. Estonian brands have made their way to global markets, forming strong business connections.
One significant project is Fashion Diplomacy, a collaboration with US design organisations. As part of this, 15 Estonian brands are now represented in the concept store Canvas at the New York Trade Center. Ilona Gurjanova, head of the Estonian Association of Designers, sees this as an important step in expanding exports. “Opportunities expand to make business contacts, collaborate and plan exports. The long-term search to find a permanent foreign partner is finally bearing fruit,” she says.
A documentary introducing Estonian design is also in progress, featuring First Lady Sirje Karis, Estonia’s UN representative, and sustainability-focused designers.
Sustainable design has played a major role in Estonia’s international success. The “Upmade in Estonia” project will be presented at Singapore Design Week as well as at the “Les Boréalis” festival in France.
Meanwhile, local events will take place, including the 20th Disainiöö festival, which focuses on human-centred design.
