Estonian Academy of Arts. Degree Show 2023

Artist list

Mirjam Aun, Margus Elizarov, Valdek Laur, Villu Mustkivi, Visa Eino Eduard Nurmi

Most works are exhibited in the Freedom Square buildings 8 and 6. The Architecture faculty’s graduation works are located at the Estonian Academy of Arts. The Graphic Design master’s works are exhibited in the yard of the Estonian Museum of Applied Art and Design.
Supervisors of  Jewellery and Blacksmithing BA thesis: Piret Hirv, Nils Hint, Urmas Lüüs, Eve Margus


Statements of BA students' thesis:

Margus Elizarov / Synopsis
Forged iron hammers, wall with embedded text
Typography was created to make communication easier. I made my print arsenal so it would be more difficult to convey messages. This difficulty means that nothing is said without good reason, but each thought is considered and refined. If communication is to be remembered and continue to resonate, the message must be clear and simple.


Valdek Laur / Cosmetic Manhood
Casted bronze, brass, aluminium neckpieces and brooches
In contemporary society, the symbolism of testicles as a source of power is ubiquitous. Having large testicles, both literally and figuratively, is a symbol of success.
The works itself are a self-ironic commentary on the absurd definitions of masculinity as well as critique of using esoteric means to solve one’s life challenges. The objective is to provoke the observer to reflect on extreme stereotypes and to ridicule examples that are not only unattainable but may prove unhealthy and dangerous in both intimate relationships and broader societal contexts.


Visa Eino Eduard Nurmi / Iron Vessel
Forged iron vessels
Through these forged vessels I explore the connection between fire, cooking and blacksmithing. Vessels are associated with sharing and being together as a social act. These iron vessels are universal forms and can be used as platters or braziers.


Mirjam Aun / Accessible
Carved alabaster objects
Like flowing water polishing shards of glass and smoothing stones in the shallows, our bodies soften matter in the flow of time. Even though the human body is transitory and bound by time, our presence leaves a mark on the physical world.


Villu Mustkivi / 5,7°
Forged iron object
Iron is one of the oldest and most important materials in human history – one of the foundations of the world. Combined with carbon it makes steel, an invaluable material that permeates every aspect of life. Humankind’s subconscious affinity with this iron alloy is justified. Steel is durable, strong and has endless potential – while hot, it is malleable like clay, when cold, it is hard and tough.
'5,7°' symbolizes the pillar of the world and embodies the universal significance of everyday steel as a foundation and binding force.