Gobelin Exhibition by Ehalill Halliste
inspired by the cross-sections of the national stone of Estonia

December 8, 2019 - February 9, 2020

Deep in the limestone under my feet is the swash of seashells,
But I am allowed to smooth just the silence on its face.
Ellen Niit. Song of Limestone,1965

Ehalill Halliste picktures limestone surfaces sintered in sea bottom during millions of years and weaves the structures and ornaments of limestone – the national stone of Estonia – into her gobelins. It is a vivid documentation depicting surprisingly variegated composition and palette of colours.
Some time ago I was looking for a good idea for a monument f or a dear person of great mind, from publications about limestone. I also found inspiring substance for my gobelins – Estonian limestone cross-sections.
Ehalill Halliste (born in 1948) studied textile art at the National Art Institute of Estonia in 1971-1976. After working at ARS and also as a teacher, since 2002 she is a freelancer. She has been given lots of prizes, among others also the honour of the White Star.

On May, 4, 1992 Limestone was declared the national stone of Estonia. Especially, because of the Lasnamägi building limestone, which reveals in the North-Estonian cliff. The building limestone is not colourful but it is possible to paint marvellous patterns of stone that seems just gray at first glance.
Kalle Suuroja: ABC of Stones/ Estonian Rocks 2004

Limestone is Estonian national stone that enriches oour nature and culture. Without it we would not have the churches, manors, living houses in towns or many other limestone buildings as they appear to be. Limestone buildings are self-evident, especially in North-Estonia. We realise its importance usually only when facing history, building our home or searching a souvenir to act as a brand of Estonia.
Helle Perens: Limestone in Estonian Building 2003

Trails of life in rocks lead us to secrets of the history of the Earth, to the ancient springs of life. At the other end of the river flowing out of these springs stands man himselt
Rein Raudsepp

The Museum of New Art
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