Association of Estonian Art Scholars Recognises Walther Monograph Authors and Peeter Talvistu

The Association of Estonian Art Scholars and Curators (EKKÜ) has announced the laureates of its 2026 annual awards. The prize was awarded to Kadi Polli and Triin Kröönström for their monograph "Carl Sigismund Walther. The Artist's Living Space" and to Peeter Talvistu for his long-standing contribution to the development of art life in Tartu and South Estonia. At the same time, the association elected a new board for 2026-2029.

The Association of Estonian Art Scholars and Curators (EKKÜ) has announced the laureates of its 2026 annual awards, recognising both outstanding scholarly work and long-term commitment to local art life.

Walther Monograph Receives High Praise

Kadi Polli and Triin Kröönström received the annual award for their monograph "Carl Sigismund Walther. The Artist's Living Space". This is a thorough and methodologically innovative treatment of one of the most important representatives of 19th-century Estonian art. The authors use Walther's life and work as a window to understanding the entire period in its entirety. The book was accompanied by an exhibition in the project space of the Kumu Art Museum, where Walther's works were presented across different genres.

Recognition for Tartu Art Life Leader

Peeter Talvistu received the annual award for his long-term and influential contribution to the development of art life in Tartu and throughout South Estonia. As chairman of the board of the Tartu Artists' Association, he has consistently advocated for artists' interests and maintained the Tartu Art House as a high-quality exhibition venue. In addition, he has worked as a curator, translator, writer, lecturer and art life advocate. Since 2017, Talvistu has also compiled the online database EKABL (Estonian Art and Architecture Biographical Lexicon).

New Board for 2026-2029

The EKKÜ general assembly elected a new board for the association on 8 June. Liisa Kaljula, head of the painting collection at the Estonian Art Museum, became chair, taking office after Merike Kurissoo, who led the association from 2020 to 2026. The board members elected were Marten Esko, Aleksandra Murre, Ingrid Ruudi, Virve Sarapik, Peeter Talvistu and Mari Vallikivi.

EKKÜ annual awards have been presented since 1996. The association was founded in 1993 and brings together art and architecture scholars, art critics, curators and visual culture researchers throughout Estonia.