Hi, I’m Riia, a freelance painter.

Often, we arrive at our true calling by taking the long way around — and so it has been for me. I’ve always loved creating beauty and harmony, which has led me to explore many different art forms over the years — ceramics, calligraphy, textiles, and floristry. Eventually, this path brought me back to where it all began: my old love — painting.

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Today, painting is my main focus. It challenges me every day, demanding continuous practice and growth. I deeply enjoy the creative process — it holds both beauty and struggle. How can something that doesn't yet exist begin to reveal itself through me? What meaning does it carry?

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My work is in constant evolution, just like I am. Nature plays a central role — both visible and invisible landscapes, along with various layers and structures. I’m drawn to that delicate point or fleeting moment when the hidden begins to emerge.

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I believe that creating comes with great responsibility — every piece I bring into the world has an impact, whether seen or unseen. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to notice and feel more deeply. To become aware of the quiet moments within and around them, the rhythms of nature, the play of light and shadow.I believe the deeper we look into ourselves, the more authentic and valuable our offering to the world becomes.

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In my work, I use a variety of techniques and materials — acrylic, oil, pastel, charcoal, and more — and I try to avoid limiting concepts. I’m most captivated by abstract painting and abstract realism, through which I feel that anything is possible and no boundaries exist.

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“I dream my painting and I paint my dream.” — Vincent van Gogh

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Riia Leedmaa (b. 1972) is a freelance artist born in Tallinn, Estonia. She graduated from Kose Secondary School, Tallinn Pedagogical School with a degree in social pedagogy, and the University of Tartu with a degree in journalism and public relations. She also studied handicrafts at Olustvere Agricultural School. Over the years, Riia has furthered her education through continuing education courses at the University of Tartu’s Faculty of Liberal Arts, the Estonian Academy of Arts, and Pallas University of Applied Sciences, as well as studying painting and calligraphy under the guidance of various artists. She is currently completing the Mastery Program at the Milan Art Institute (USA). 

 

11 August – 28 September 2025

solo exhibition "Floras Story" at Kuressaare Art Studio Gallery