Theatre designers’ group show explores the art of stage makeup

A group exhibition by the Estonian Scenographers’ Association exploring theatrical makeup has opened at Draakoni Gallery, ERR reports. The exhibition, titled “Uncovered,” features makeup designs and three-dimensional pieces made in a theatre makeup workshop, as well as works being created in the gallery.

The exhibition presents makeup as a tool for shaping a character’s appearance, communicating subtext and transforming an actor’s body. The designs focus on parts of the body left uncovered by costumes. Makeup can create features such as scars, wounds, teeth, noses, facial hair and tattoos, or transform an actor into a plant, animal or other fantastical character.

“Uncovered” is the ninth exhibition in the association’s 1:10 series, which has presented scenographers’ work from a different perspective each time over the past decade. This year’s exhibition looks at the profession through the starting point of makeup art.

The participating artists are Ursula Goldstein, Jana Hanikova, Mae Kivilo, Ellen-Alice Lyakh, Kristel Maamägi, Marge Martin, Mare Raidma, Kersti Prosa, Keili Retter, Nele Sooväli, Anna Sui, Riina Vanhanen and Inga Vares. Marge Martin curated the exhibition, and Mae Kivilo created the graphic design.

The exhibition is open on level 0 of Draakoni Gallery until December 6, 2026.