When the Estonian Folk Culture Awards (Rahvakultuuri auhinnad) were presented in Viljandi this October, one name resonated across the ocean — Andres Truus. The Brisbane-based multidisciplinary designer was honoured with the Folk Art Award (Rahvakunsti auhind) for his outstanding contribution to the Estonian community in Australia through his work in graphic design.
“Thank you, Andres Truus, for giving the Australian Estonian community a unified face through graphic design, shaping its visual identity and carrying forward the spirit of folk art and the values of heritage,” said the Estonian Folk Culture Centre (Eesti Rahvakultuuri Keskus).
A visual voice for the community
For years, Andres has been the creative force behind the visual storytelling of Estonian events across Australia. A long-time member of the Brisbane Estonian Society, his work ranges from national event branding to poster design — merging tradition with modern clarity.
His thoughtful approach — balancing heritage motifs with a contemporary design language — has shaped how the Estonian community is seen both locally and internationally. Each design carries a piece of cultural memory, from the patterns of traditional embroidery to the rhythm of Estonian song and dance.
“Andres combines traditional folk motifs with clean, contemporary lines, creating visuals that speak both to our heritage and to the world we live in today,” reads part of the nomination.
Andres’s portfolio includes visual identities for major community events such as Eesti Päevad (Estonian Festival) and Lõunapoolkera Lugemisklubi (Southern Hemisphere Book Club), whose posters have delighted audiences around Australia and beyond. His work invites participation, sparks curiosity and inspires.
“Andres doesn’t just create beautiful images — he designs meaning. His posters and logos capture the soul of Estonian culture in a modern form — weaving together colour, symbol and story to make our shared heritage visible and alive.”
One of his standout achievements is the design of the conductor’s podium for the 2019 Tallinn Song Festival (Laulupidu), showcasing his talents not only as a graphic designer but also as an industrial designer.
See some of Andres’s beautiful design work below.
A recognition that reaches across continents
Although Andres could not attend the ceremony in person, the award was sent to him in Australia. His recognition highlights the continuing importance of Estonian folk culture among communities abroad — and its appreciation in Estonia. Creativity and heritage truly know no borders.
As Andres himself humbly said upon hearing the news: “Teen seda puhtast rõõmust!” — “I do it for the pure joy of it!”
The Estonian Folk Culture Awards, organised by the Eesti Rahvakultuuri Keskus, recognise contributions across ten categories — from dance and music to crafts, language and community initiatives.
Congratulations, Andres — and heartfelt thanks for giving our community its visual voice! Well done!
Read more
A glimpse into Andres’s creative work:
www.behance.net/desman
Watch the award ceremony:
https://www.facebook.com/rahvakultuurikeskus/videos/1861968741409502
Read more about Estonian Folk Culture Centre:
https://rahvakultuur.ee/
Acknowledgements
Warm thanks to everyone who noticed and nominated members of the Australian Estonian community for this year’s awards. Just like Andres, our community events and initiatives happen thanks to the unpaid efforts of volunteers who generously contribute their time, creativity and skills. Let’s remember — and celebrate — these wonderful people often.
