Kristina Popov's exhibition "Mire" introduces the fragile beauty and vitality of mires

The University of Tartu Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden invite you to visit the exhibition Mire by Kristina Popov at the Botanical Garden Tartu from 4th of September until 21st of November 2025.

Dedicated to the ecosystem of mires and their role as the largest natural carbon sinks, the exhibition focuses on the family of peat mosses (Sphagnum). These mosses form dense carpets in raised bogs and transitional mires and are the primary plants responsible for peat formation. In Estonia, 40 species of Sphagnum have been identified, including 12 rare species, two of which have not been recorded in the past 20 years despite targeted searches.

These hydrophilic plants take centre stage in the exhibition, which sensitively and profoundly delves into their macro- and microcosms — tracing their internal structures, their tactile qualities, and the formal beauty of these living organisms. Through a multimedia and multisensory body of work, Popov finds an artistic language that captures the force and fragility of life itself. Her practice offers a mode of mediation that draws us back to our origins, allowing us to experience what life is made of — and why it must be protected.

Combining scientific inquiry with artistic exploration, Mire examines the potential of interdisciplinary approaches to rethink the relationship between humans and nature. Its goal is to heighten awareness of ecological interdependencies and inspire new perspectives on coexistence.

The exhibition opens on 4 September from 5 pm to 9 pm at the Botanical Garden of the University of Tartu, with the artist present. On 6 September at 1 pm, a curatorial tour with Marie Mergler will provide deeper insights into individual artworks and invite visitors into dialogue.

A cyanotype workshop led by Kristina Popov on 14 September at 1 pm will explore the connections between our everyday actions and their impact on ecological balance. In this hands-on session, participants will investigate the relationships between natural habitats and man-made objects. These connections will be captured through cyanotypes of mosses, plants, trees, and found objects.

The exhibition can be visited daily during the regular opening hours of the Botanical Garden, from 10 am to 5 pm.

The programme concludes with a finissage on 21 November from 5 pm to 9 pm. The project will then continue with a follow-up exhibition at The University of Tartu Natural History Museum.

The exhibition is supported by the Goethe-Institut Tallinn.