Jūratė – May 2025

This photo set is inspired by the legend of Jūratė, an Estonian sea goddess often linked to the origins of amber — a treasured natural resource throughout the Baltic region. My goal was to depict Jūratė with a sense of authenticity, drawing on Estonia’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. During the early stages of research, I explored the works of two notable Estonian painters: Johann Köler, particularly his Eve After the Fall (1883), and Michael Sittow, known for his medieval style and delicate brushwork. Their influence helped shape both the tone and visual style of the series. Blending myth, history, and classical art, the project seeks to capture the wonder of this national legend while remaining faithful to the aesthetics and symbolism found in earlier depictions. The result is a set of images that feel both timeless and rooted — honouring Estonia’s storytelling tradition while interpreting it through a modern photographic camera with vintage lens.