Yesterday, on 18 June, the art exhibition From Imaginary to Reality
was opened next to the main hall of the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The exhibition features a diverse selection of Estonian artworks from the collection of the Viinistu Art Museum. Its opening is part of the cultural programme accompanying the 59th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Estonia is a candidate in the October 2025 elections for membership of the Human Rights Council for the period 2026–2028.
The works on display cover the period from the previous century to the present day. The exhibition reflects the consistent struggle of Estonians for independence, security, and freedom. “The historical motifs represented in the exhibition remain relevant today, with powerful actors disregarding international norms, reminding us that freedom is not to be taken for granted — it requires constant defence and international solidarity,” Jaan Manitski, former Estonian Foreign Minister and founder of the Viinistu Art Museum, said, opening the exhibition via video link.
Riia Salsa-Audiffren, Estonia’s Ambassador to Geneva, added that displaying artworks created during the Soviet occupation alongside contemporary Estonian art continues to highlight the importance of human rights. “Many of the featured artists worked during a time when freedom of speech and expression were severely restricted,” the ambassador noted. “These works reflect a nation’s resistance, hope, and pursuit of independence and freedom — values that we continue to uphold today. The right to express oneself is the cornerstone of a democratic and free society and must be safeguarded for all — regardless of time, place, or those in power.”
The exhibition was organised in cooperation between the Viinistu Art Museum and the Permanent Representation of Estonia to the UN in Geneva and underscores Estonia’s commitment to the promotion of international human rights. The exhibition will remain open until 30 June.
Watch Jaan Manitski’s video greeting to exhibition visitors here.
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