First Journey Day 71: Palette of the Past

Date: November 3, 2023
Location: Tallinn, Estonia

Today moved between glass and cobblestone in Tallinn, Estonia—modern galleries, a baroque park, and the hush of Old Town beneath a pewter Baltic sky.

Modern Lines at Kumu

Today, I found myself wandering the halls of the Kumu Art Museum in Tallinn. The museum, with its modern architecture, stood in stark contrast to the medieval charm of the city. As I moved from one gallery to another, I was taken on a journey through Estonia's artistic evolution. From classical pieces that spoke of the nation's history to contemporary artworks that challenged conventions, every piece told a story.

Post-Soviet Echoes

One particular exhibit that caught my eye was a collection of post-Soviet era art. The raw emotion and the artists' yearning for expression in a time of change were palpable. It made me reflect on the power of art to capture moments in time, to convey emotions, and to inspire change.

A Walk Through Kadriorg Park

After the museum, I decided to take a leisurely walk in Kadriorg Park. The overcast skies added a touch of melancholy to the surroundings, making the baroque Kadriorg Palace stand out even more. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sound of children playing added to the park's charm.

Quiet Café, Quick Sketches

As the day came to a close, I found a quaint café in the Old Town. Over a cup of tea and a slice of traditional Estonian cake, I penned down my thoughts and sketched a few scenes from the day.

Tallinn Between Past and Future

Tallinn, with its blend of history and modernity, has left a lasting impression on me. It's a reminder that while we must cherish our past, we should also embrace the present and look forward to the future.

Travel Notes

• Weather: Overcast and cool; roughly 44–47°F (~7–8°C). A pewter sky, damp stone, and the faint feeling of drizzle in the air.
• Scents: Clean gallery varnish and paper; outside, wet leaves, coffee, and a hint of autumn woodsmoke.
• Sounds: Soft museum footsteps, the rustle of park leaves, distant children’s laughter, and the occasional tram bell.
• Reflection: Tallinn’s art and streets converse—modern voices carried over medieval cobbles, each lending the other depth.

Continue the Journey

If this gray-blue day spoke to you, wander on to Day 72: Rainy Rhythms, or glimpse another Estonian mood in Tartu with Attention Held in Suspension.