Artist Residencies in Estonia

Arvo Pärt Centre

Laulasmaa, Estonia

The Arvo Pärt Centre Residency Programme, nestled in the serene environment of Laulasmaa, Estonia, offers a unique retreat for artists across various disciplines. Embracing the ethos of silence and creativity inspired by the renowned composer Arvo Pärt, the residency serves as a canvas for composers, performers, writers, visual artists, architects, film, and dance artists to explore and create. With its affiliation to the Estonian Creative Residencies Network (LOORE) since 2023, the Centre fosters a supportive atmosphere for both solo artists and small groups to engage in open-ended creative processes amidst the natural beauty of a pine forest and the sea. Offering both scholarship-based and self-funded residencies, the Arvo Pärt Centre is a beacon for artistic exploration, providing the time and space for artists to work, create, and find inspiration without the pressure of producing a finalized work or project.

KORDON

Kärdla, Estonia

KORDON Artist Residency, nestled on the serene Hiiumaa island in Estonia, offers a unique retreat for artists across disciplines. Since its inception in August 2018, KORDON has encouraged artists to immerse in local culture and engage with the community through exhibitions, workshops, or open studios. Operated by the non-profit KORDONair MTÜ, founded by Vaikla Studio, the residency fosters site-specific projects and research. The residency, set in a historically rich building renovated for contemporary creative work, provides both self-funded and project-specific funded programs. Artists are selected through invitations or open calls, focusing on local-global issues. KORDON offers a tranquil environment for critical thinkers and artists, promoting privacy and slowness, with facilities that include private studios, communal spaces, and opportunities for public engagement.

Rüki Residency (Ruki Residency)

Viljandi, Estonia

Rüki Residency, nestled in the historic city of Viljandi, Estonia, offers a unique opportunity for artists across all disciplines to immerse themselves in a creative environment. The residency, housed in a building dating back to the second half of the 19th century and renovated in 2022/2023, began its operations in June 2023. It serves as a hub for artists, musicians, writers, and other creatives to produce and showcase their work. Rüki provides a private furnished apartment with an attached studio space, and the possibility to use the gallery space within the same building. The residency fosters collaborations with local institutions, offering a rich cultural exchange. Viljandi's serene atmosphere presents an ideal setting for artists to focus and draw inspiration away from urban distractions. Rüki Residency encourages residents to engage with the community through workshops, exhibitions, or other public events. This self-funded program requires artists to cover their own travel and living expenses, with residency fees varying based on duration and specific needs.