Paulina Belik | “Artists Are Present” (estonia)

Paulina Belik (b. 2002) is a multidisciplinary artist from Narva, Estonia. She graduated from the Estonian Academy of Arts in 2025 with a degree in Animation. Her practice is driven by experimentation with different materials, techniques and ways of working. She explores both traditional handicraft and digital tools, constantly learning, experimenting and sharing her process online. By combining computer graphics with earth-based and handmade practices, Paulina moves between the digital and physical worlds. This allows her to slow down, stay connected to nature and enjoy the process of making, while also reflecting on it, connecting with others and sharing her discoveries online.

The project explores the puppet as a language of self-expression. During the project, each student will create their own puppet-character using different materials, including recycled
and reused objects. By giving old materials a new life and meaning, students will explore how art can emerge from what is already around us. The puppet will become more than an object: each student will give it a name, personality, mood, wishes and a story. Through their characters, students can express thoughts and feelings indirectly, making it easier and more playful to speak in another language. At the end, students present their characters and stories, and are photographed with their puppets as a final project memory.