Estonian culture is rich and diverse, reflecting its history and artistic spirit. When learning Estonian, understanding the vocabulary related to creative arts and culture can enrich your experience and appreciation of this beautiful language and culture. Here are some key words and phrases along with their definitions and example sentences to help you get started.

Kunst
Kunst means “art” in Estonian. It can be used to refer to any creative work or the visual arts more specifically.

Ma armastan klassikalist kunsti.

Maalikunst
Maalikunst translates to “painting” in the artistic sense. The term pertains to works created using paint.

Tema lemmikhobi on maalikunst.

Skulptuur
Skulptuur stands for “sculpture.” This term is linked to the three-dimensional art pieces created from materials like stone, metal, or wood.

Muuseumis oli näha erakordseid skulptuure.

Kultuuripärand
Kultuuripärand means “cultural heritage” and refers to the traditions, sites, and artifacts that are part of a culture’s history.

Eesti kultuuripärand on väga rikkalik ja mitmekülgne.

Rahvakunst
Rahvakunst is the term for “folk art,” which are the artistic expressions of the culture and traditions of the common people, usually handed down through generations.

Laadal müüdi palju kohalikku rahvakunsti.

Muusika
Muusika simply means “music.” It encompasses all forms and styles of music.

Tal on kirglik suhe muusikaga.

Kino
Kino is the Estonian word for “cinema” or “movie theater.” It is also used to refer to the art of filmmaking.

Nädalavahetusel läheme kinno uut filmi vaatama.

Tants
Tants translates as “dance.” It is not only an art form but is also a significant part of Estonian social and cultural customs.

Rahvuslikud tantsud on Eesti kultuuris olulised.

Teater
Teater means “theater” in both the physical structure where performances occur and the art form itself which includes plays, musicals, and other stage performances.

Me käime üks kord kuus teatris.

Kirjandus
Kirjandus stands for “literature.” This encompasses all the written work, especially those considered to have artistic or intellectual value.

Eesti kirjandus on väga rikas ja huvitav.

Näitus
Näitus translates to “exhibition” or “show.” It is commonly used in reference to art exhibitions, but can also be for other types of displays.

Kas sa käisid sellel fotograafia näitusel?

Luule
Luule means “poetry.” It is a form of literary art that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings.

Ta loeb sageli luulet oma lastele.

Integrating these words into your vocabulary will help you discuss and explore Estonian creative arts and culture more deeply. Whether you’re visiting galleries, going to the theater, or engaging with locals, these terms provide a great starting point for appreciating the richness of Estonia’s cultural landscape.