Tallinn Illustration Triennial “Power of Pictures”
The Tallinn Illustration Triennial “Power of Pictures” is an international illustration exhibition held every three years. The triennial brings the work of acclaimed illustrators from different countries to Estonian audiences and offers an opportunity to discover the diversity of contemporary illustration.
The 8th Tallinn Illustration Triennial “Power of Pictures” will take place from 22 October to 29 November 2026 at the Estonian Museum of Architecture. The exhibition features 78 illustrators from Estonia and abroad. The participating artists come from countries across Europe, North and South America, and Asia.
“Power of Pictures” invites visitors to explore illustration as an art form that transcends cultural and national boundaries. An image can tell, complement or expand a story, while also reflecting the artist’s cultural background and worldview. The exhibition offers an opportunity for discovery and enjoyment for both children and adults, while allowing visitors to explore how different cultures and artistic approaches shape the development of illustration.
According to Viive Noor, the curator of the triennial, illustration has the power to bring distant cultures closer through images and to offer peace, curiosity and nourishment for the soul in challenging times.
The Tallinn Illustration Triennial is organised by the National Library of Estonia, the Estonian Association of Graphic Designers and the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre. The triennial was launched in 2003, when book artists from the Baltic Sea countries were invited to participate. Since 2017, illustrators from beyond the Baltic Sea region have also been included, selected by the curator.
The main awards of the triennial are the Grand Prix and ten diplomas. Special awards are also presented by the National Library of Estonia, the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre, the Estonian Artists’ Union, the Estonian Section of IBBY and the Estonian Association of Graphic Designers.
The exhibition programme includes a catalogue, curator-led tours and an educational programme.
8th Tallinn Illustration Triennial “Power of Pictures”
22 October – 29 November 2026
Estonian Museum of Architecture, Ahtri 2, Tallinn
The triennial is supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia and the City of Tallinn.
