Photography: Tõnu Runnel's Perspective on Estonian Blues Captured in Images
In the heart of Estonia, the camera lens of Pēteris Vīksna captures more than just images - he captures the soul of the cities he photographs. Over the course of more than five years, Vīksna's urban photo series, titled "This Feels Familiar," has been exploring the unique character and atmosphere of Estonian urban environments.
From the charming, fog-kissed Tartu Town Hall Square, where the speaker's office resides, to the picturesque, nostalgia-laden streets of Annelinn, Tartu, Vīksna's lens has documented the visual essence of city life. The series also includes the vibrant, artistically adorned Toomemäe, Tartu, with its walled-up window slots serving as a canvas for local heroes.
Venturing to Tallinn, the capital city, Vīksna captures the repurposed grandeur of Rotermann, a location where young Estonians work and show off the modern side of their country to foreign friends. The series also highlights the rapid change in Telliskivi, with industrial buildings being taken over by the creative class, and some buildings awaiting renovation.
One of the most striking images in the series is the solitary, shabby house in Kalamaja, Tallinn, which was destined for demolition but remains as a testament to the city's history and beauty. Another captivating location is Tähtvere, Tartu, where a futuristic song festival ground from the 1980s stands, now stylish, hip, and ready for prime time.
For those seeking a more intimate glimpse into Estonian urban life, Sirli Raitma's portraiture work offers a compelling alternative. Raitma, an Estonian photographer based abroad, has a notable series called "Eha," which focuses on portraiture rather than urban scenes.
Exploring the urban photo spots in Tallinn, Estonia's capital, can provide further inspiration for those interested in Estonian urban photography. For more information about Vīksna's series, readers can look into his solo exhibitions or articles covering Baltic photography news, such as the one from FK Magazine dated July 2025.
In summary, "This Feels Familiar" offers a captivating journey through the heart of Estonian cities, showcasing the unique character and atmosphere of each location. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of urban environments, this series is a must-see.
- The solitary house in Kalamaja, Tallinn, standing as a testament to the city's history and beauty, is one of the most striking images captured in Pēteris Vīksna's urban photo series "This Feels Familiar."
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts might find Tähtvere, Tartu, intriguing, a location where a futuristic song festival ground from the 1980s stands, now stylish, hip, and ready for prime time.
- Sirli Raitma, an Estonian photographer based abroad, provides an intimate glimpse into Estonian urban life with her portraiture work called "Eha."