[UPCOMING] Lembit Peegel's exhibition „Peegel/Pildis”
Tartu Marathon, 1982. Author: Lembit Peegel
Fotografiska welcomes the year 2025, during which Tallinn holds the title of European Capital of Sport, with a focus on Estonian sports photography. On January 24, Fotografiska will open an exhibition titled 'Peegel/Pildis' by the legendary sports photographer Lembit Peegel. This is Peegel's first solo exhibition, showcasing numerous previously unseen images from his vast collection.
The exhibition offers an insight into the work of sports photographer Lembit Peegel, showcasing impactful photographs that tell the story of Estonian sports culture from 1970–1990, along with highlights from later sports moments. Peegel, often volunteering at the time, traveled across sporting events with passion, dedication, and determination. His exceptional ability to capture the beauty, charm, and challenges of sports resulted in vivid and authentic moments that shaped Estonian culture and history.
The exhibition “Peegel/Pildis” focuses on historical moments and emotional scenes, masterfully captured through Peegel’s bold and swift reactions. Black-and-white images from the era’s sporting events are juxtaposed with victory moments from Estonia’s first Olympic Games after regaining independence, framing the nation’s confidence and resurgence. The rich nuances of past sports disciplines come alive in Peegel’s authentic snapshots, highlighting his sharp artistic vision.
Lembit Peegel’s role as one of the most influential chroniclers of Estonian sports life is invaluable. This exhibition, curated by Fotografiska Tallinn in collaboration with the Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum, and sports advocates Are Altraja and Peeter Keeg, aims to preserve and share his legacy, featuring approximately 50 photographs.
Peegel, born in 1936, started photographing sports in the 1960s, having initially trained as a boxer. His sports background helped him deeply understand and capture the essence of athletics. Over his career, he amassed an archive of about 600,000 negatives, with his total body of work nearing a million images. Even today, he continues to photograph major sports events.
The exhibition includes various special events and guided tours with notable figures, providing a journey through Estonia’s sports history and its cultural significance.
On Saturday, January 25, visitors have a rare chance to hear Lembit Peegel's reflections on past sports eras during exhibition tours at 11:00 and 13:00, guided by Peegel and Are Altraja. February adds three more special tours: February 5 at 18:00 with photographer Jarek Jõepera, February 16 at 16:00 with Allar Levandi and Tiit Karuks, and February 27 at 18:00 with Kaarel Antons and Johannes Vedru.
The exhibition is supported by Sportland, NIKE, the Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum, Põhjala Brewery, European Capital of Sport Tallinn 2025, Rotermann, GRAM Wellness Drink, Fifaa and Forus.