Tartu 2024 European Capital of Culture Launches with 'Art of Survival' Program

Tartu, Estonia's second-largest city with 100,000 inhabitants, is one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2024, alongside Bodø (Norway) and Bad Ischl (Austria). Its program, titled 'Art of Survival,' carries a geopolitical message in support of Ukraine due to Tartu's proximity to Russia. Organizers aim for one million visitors. The budget exceeds €25 million, with €10 million from the state, €10 million from the municipality, and the remainder from private sources and surrounding towns. Highlights include over 1,000 events, such as a documentary festival on May 4, the world's first cultural festival held in saunas on May 10–11, a stencil art festival from July 4–7, and a kiss festival on May 18 featuring Conchita Wurst. The most anticipated art event is a November 2024 exhibition at the Estonian National Museum (ERM) by Japanese artist Ryoji Ikeda, created in collaboration with the University of Tartu's genome institute. Pop concerts include Sting on June 10, the Orchestre de Paris on June 15, and Bryan Adams on July 7. Tartu's key cultural venues include the ERM, designed by architects Dan Dorell, Lina Ghotmeh, and Tsuyoshi Tane, and the Aparaaditehas art district in a former factory.