Upmade in Estonia: Sustainable design, talks & pop-up shop

ABOUT

UPMADE in Estonia is a visionary exhibition spotlighting the future of design. In a world challenged by overconsumption and waste, Estonia offers creative, efficient alternatives rooted in tradition and nature. As the world’s first 99% digital society, Estonia blends Northern European heritage with innovation, presenting a model for sustainable living. The exhibition celebrates Estonian designers who craft circular products that minimize waste and maximize resourcefulness, reflecting deep commitments to sustainability and digital governance.

The exhibition unfolds across five sections:

*Tradition & Craftsmanship – Honouring generational artistry

*Upcycling – Reviving discarded materials

*Recycling – Transforming waste into resources

*Biomaterials – Advanced materials that bypass waste

*Digital Innovation & 3D Printing – Tech-driven sustainability

Launched at NYCxDESIGN 2024 and heading to France, UPMADE is more than an exhibition—it’s a movement. Curated by Ilona Gurjanova and Reet Aus, PhD, with layout by Tarmo Luisk.

Talks & Lectures

*SCAPE Orchard Design District, 2 Orchard Link 

Sept 17, 4.00pm – Ilona Gurjanova & Riina Õun

Sept 18, 4.00pm – Kärt Summatavet, PhD 

Sept 20, 12.00pm – Reet Aus, PhD

Estonian Embassy Singapore, 18 Robinson #21-03 

Sept 19, 4.00–6.00pm – Kärt Summatavet, PhD 

Networking with Reet Aus, Ilona Gurjanova, Tarmo Luisk, Elize Hiiop, Kärt Summatavet, Eva-Karlotta Tatar & Kirke Tatar.

RSVP: [email protected]

ORGANISER

Estonian Association of Designers

The Estonian Association of Designers (EAD) connects 190 top designers across disciplines, promoting sustainable design, professional excellence, and global collaboration. EAD organizes exhibitions, festivals, and projects like “Tallinn For All”, gives out the BRUNO Award, runs Estonian Design House, and belongs to global design bodies.

CO-ORGANISER

Estonian Academy of Arts/DiMa

DiMa, the Sustainable Design and Materials Lab at the Estonian Academy of Arts, focuses on circular design and material innovation. It connects research, teaching, and industry to develop eco-friendly products, reduce waste, and promote upcycling. DiMa leads EU-backed projects and global collaborations.

CONTACT

Name: Ilona Gurjanova
Email Address: [email protected]

Top image: Photo courtesy of Estonian Association of Designers. Square Image: Sandra’s “Completely out of Fashion” creations transform discarded denim into bold, wearable statements—torn, woven, and stitched with purpose. Photo courtesy of Read MoreSandra Luks.

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