For 15 years already, theme years have been organised by the Estonian Ministry of Culture to focus public attention on a specific cultural sphere. In Estonia, 2016 is the Year of Maritime Culture, dedicated to maritime-related traditions and customs, the art of living by and with the sea.

In order to help sea enthusiasts in finding their way around the theme year’s programme, a visual has been created with somewhat offbeat graphic elements which mark the focus topics and principal messages of the Year of Maritime Culture. The authors of the illustrative language and logo from the year‘s concept and design agency Identity see the sea as something immense and mysterious. Their microchipped sprats and coifed eelpouts are mythological, surreal and, at the same time, somehow familiar. The logo, too, has got a friendly face: the Year of Maritime Culture invites everyone to turn their faces to the sea.

Facing the sea!

Rich programme throughout the year

‘The Coastal Trip’, one of the year’s main programmes, is directed towards modern coastal residents and those interested in their traditions, skills and everyday life. The educational programme ‘Facing the Sea!’ is designed for young people and shall provide an introduction into maritime-related education and career opportunities. Sea Camp for youth will be held in seven spots of Estonia on the initiative of the Estonian Yachting Union, offering the opportunity to learn about maritime sports.

In addition to the specific events, the year will be filled with various competitions: The Idea competition for Year of Maritime Culture was just launched, ‘The Sea is Our Heritage and History’ – the first of the theme year’s four photo competitions – is also already under way and awaiting photos related to Estonia’s maritime history and heritage. Besides the valuable prizes from Nikon, the best photograph will be published in the April edition of National Geographic Eesti. The search for the most popular Estonian sea song will begin in May and end with the most spectacular maritime song concert of all times in the Seaplane Harbour during Tallinn Maritime Days.

The time for more serious discussions will begin at the end of the summer. Year of Maritime Culture will also be present at the annual Festival of Opinion Culture in the town of Paide. Maritime challenges will be discussed there.