Kondase Centre showcases textile works by three artists

An exhibition at the Kondase Centre in Viljandi brings together embroidered works by Maria Peet, Harri Aer and Hilda Vilde. ERR reports that the show, titled “Long pictures, fine threads. Fine pictures, long threads,” is open until November 1.

The exhibition focuses on Peet (1913–2002), a craft enthusiast from Saaremaa whose legacy includes more than 200 works, including embroidered pictures, tapestries, paintings, knitted items and traditional Muhu slippers.

Among her later works are “needle paintings”: detailed images embroidered onto pieces of used clothing sewn together. They depict her childhood, Saaremaa landscapes, farm life, people, animals and village events. Kondase Centre director and curator Mari Vallikivi described the works as a richly detailed, diary-like sequence portraying 20th-century Saaremaa.

The exhibition also features large and small cross-stitch picture tapestries by Aer (1920–2006), who took up embroidery after retiring. His works draw on Saaremaa life and places, as well as folk tales, Bible stories, history, memories and imagination.

A smaller selection of Vilde’s (1921–2013) works is also on display. Her art is notable for its decorative style, bold colours and free combination of materials, without necessarily following set patterns.