Helena Pass ⎜Children’s literature residency (Estonia)

BIO:

Helena Pass is an artist and illustrator based in Tallinn, Estonia. She studied graphic arts at the Estonian Academy of Arts and photography at Pallas University of Applied Sciences. Her practice combines drawing and printmaking, with drawing functioning as her primary tool for artistic research. She often brings together visual documentation in the form of artist books, which she values for their ability to hold both structure and intimacy. Through a mix of observational methods—drawing, photography, found materials, and interviews—she explores peripheral and transitional environments. Her ongoing interest lies in the relationship between humans and nature, particularly in spaces at risk of disappearing, such as dacha communities.

PROJECT:

During her one-month residency, Helena started collecting photographic material and sketches for her book about dachas. She spent her “field work” days driving her bike through different dacha areas in and around Narva, taking photos of the vibrant and unique dacha houses and gardens, full of bright flowers and decorations. During her residency, she gave two workshops – one open workshop during the Station Narva music festival, and one workshop to a class in Narva-Jõesuu school. Both of the workshops were connected to the aim of her book – and interactive childrens book where readers can draw and build their own dacha houses.

Photos from the workshops :

Photos from Dachas: