Estonian designers in New York
Exhibition: Upmade in Estonia as a part of New York Design festival NYCxDESIGN
May 16-22, 2024
Soul of Estonian Design Unveiled: Tradition, Circularity, Innovation
Estonian designers are renowned for their innovative approach, which is complemented by a commitment to embracing a circular and minimalist design philosophy deeply rooted in a respect for nature and a forward-thinking mindset. This unique blend of sustainability and digital innovation serves as the cornerstone of Estonian design, resulting in products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and part of a circular lifecycle.
Estonia, a small yet dynamic Baltic country nestled in Northern Europe, has made significant strides in the global design and digital innovation landscape. Recognized as the “most unicorns per capita in Europe” and “the most start-ups per capita in Europe,” Estonia stands out as the world’s first 100% digitally transformed society.
As the Global Digital Governance Leader and the birthplace of Skype, Estonia is renowned for its efficient digital government services. The e-Residency program, established a decade ago, enables individuals worldwide to become virtual residents of Estonia, granting access to a transparent business environment and empowering innovation-driven entrepreneurs in the creative industries on a global scale.
Events at the Lafayette gallery in SOHO:
The exhibition UPMADE in Estonia is a showcase of Estonian design and digital innovation and a platform for growth and new ideas. It features a circular design, new materials, and Estonian culture posters displayed throughout the gallery. Design talks moderated by Surya Vanka from IDSA with Estonian designers and opinion leaders on digital innovation offer insights into the future of design, while workshops provide exciting hands-on experiences and invaluable learning opportunities.
You can see Estonian design in the ‘ByDesign’ television series, broadcast on CBS Network Television, which showcases international design stories to millions of viewers across major markets. The ‘Soul of Estonian Design Unveiled: Tradition, Sustainability, Innovation’ will be featured in the 2024 series, highlighting Estonia’s innovative design ethos and global impact within NYC Design Week guidelines.
At the opening event on May 17th you will have the opportunity to meet Estonian designers in person, talk to them, make deals. The exhibited objects tell stories about recycling and upcycling and new innovative materials besides the artefacts which prove the beauty of traditional methods. Estonian drinks and bites will be available, and visitors can also purchase unique gifts at the pop-up shop.
NYC designers have the chance to collaborate and engage with the Tallinn Design Festival, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and creative exchange. Opportunities for hosting speakers and exhibitions are open, encouraging connections between designers and institutions.
Active creatives interested in conducting business in Europe can receive guidance on becoming an e-Resident of Estonia and have the opportunity to meet with experts in the field.
