Exhibition The Forest Whispers – Estonian Jewellery Art in Dialogue with Finnish Forests

A remarkable exhibition has opened at the Kello- ja Korumuseo Kruunu in Espoo at the beginning of May, offering Finnish audiences the most comprehensive and up-to-date showcase of contemporary Estonian jewellery art to date. Tavast Goldsmith’s Tools (pood.tavast.ee) proudly contributed to making this unique exhibition possible.

The Forest as a Source of Inspiration

Entitled “Metsä kuiskaa / Mets sosistab” (translated as “The Forest Whispers”), the exhibition explores the significance of the forest and nature to humans through the medium of jewellery art. The forest is both a material and an idea – a whisper that invites creation, reflection, memory, and expression through metal, stone, wood, and other natural materials. The works delve into personal experiences, mythology, folklore, ecological thinking, and spiritual relationships with the environment.

Fresh Creations and Emerging Talent

Featuring the work of 60 Estonian jewellery artists, the exhibition brings together established names and gifted younger creators. Notably, half of the pieces were created specifically for this exhibition during 2024–2025, lending the showcase a sense of freshness and immediacy. Most of the works on display were crafted within the last five years.

Among them are pieces by students from the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy and the Estonian Academy of Arts, highlighting the creativity and vision of the younger generation and their unique interpretations of the connection between nature and jewellery.

Curated by Dr Kärt Summatavet

The curator of the exhibition is jewellery artist and art scholar Dr Kärt Summatavet, whose poetic yet perceptive interpretation of the forest as a source of inspiration and voice has shaped the presentation. Dr Summatavet also curated the 2023–2024 exhibition “The Forest Replies, the Spring Speaks” at the Estonian National Museum, of which this current exhibition is an expanded and international continuation.

A Multilayered Collaboration

The exhibition has been realised in cooperation with various institutions from both Estonia and Finland. Supporters include the Embassy of Estonia in Helsinki, the Finnish Heritage Agency (Museovirasto), the City of Espoo, and of course, Tavast Goldsmith’s Tools. This project stands as a notable example of cultural bridging and creative partnership.

Visitors are encouraged to also view the related exhibition “Soul of Jewellery”, displayed at the Estonian Embassy in Helsinki. This exhibition serves as an introduction to “The Forest Whispers” and is accessible by prior registration (details available on the Embassy’s website).