Herald Eelma

Artist's country of origin: Estonia

Herald Eelma (born March 26, 1934, in Võhmuta village, Järvamaa) is an Estonian graphic artist known for his calm and deeply thoughtful approach to art. He graduated cum laude from the Estonian Academy of Arts in 1959, drawing significant attention with his thesis work, which featured wood engravings for A. H. Tammsaare’s *Truth and Justice*.

Eelma’s body of work is vast, including notable pieces such as *Trees*, *Sunday* (linocut), and *Bridges* (colored linocut), inspired by the landscapes of Central Estonia, Möldri village on Saaremaa Island, and Tapurla village on the northern coast. His linocuts are known for their boldness, while his lithographs showcase sensitivity. His drawings alternate between sketch-like works and carefully refined, balanced compositions.

One of the milestones in Eelma’s career was his illustration of *Kalevala*, which earned him international recognition. Oulu-based publisher Pohjoinen released 40 illustrations for *Kalevala* as a separate publication, with each illustration connected to a specific rune. Eelma’s mastery of wood engraving is also seen in his illustrations for Tammsaare’s *I Loved a German*.

Other well-known illustrated works by Eelma include Fr. Tuglas’ *Popi and Huhuu*, Aleksis Kivi’s *Kullervo*, Henrik Ibsen’s *Peer Gynt*, Fr. Tuglas’ *Marginalia*, and Michel Quoist’s *Prayers Along the Way of the Cross*. His meticulous attention to detail and profound introspection in these illustrations have made them timeless works that continue to engage viewers decades later.

Herald Eelma’s work has been exhibited at various international biennials, and he has received recognition both domestically and abroad. He is considered a modernizer of Estonian graphic art, and along with Peeter Ulas, he introduced a bold, masculine style to Estonian graphics.

Eelma has received numerous awards, including the Kristjan Raud Prize (1981, 1986), the Grand Prize at the Tallinn Graphic Triennial (1980), the title of Merited Artist of the Estonian SSR (1975), the title of People’s Artist of the Estonian SSR (1983), and the Order of the White Star, 4th Class (1999).

In addition to his artistic achievements, Eelma has been a dedicated art educator, teaching young artists at the Estonian Academy of Arts (ERKI) and the Tallinn Art University, where he also served as the head of the drawing department. His contributions to both art and education have left a profound impact on the development of Estonian art.

Herald Eelma’s life and work have been closely tied to the evolution of Estonian art, with his creations making a significant contribution to Estonian graphic art, and his works continue to be highly valued both in Estonia and internationally.