7 August 2030 marks the 100th birth anniversary of Veljo Tormis! To celebrate the centenary, a sweater-knitting competition will begin this August, on the composer’s 96th birth anniversary.

The aim of the initiative is to create a symbolic gift for the beloved composer, born from community creativity and a nature-oriented mindset, while valuing intangible cultural heritage. This long-term project is carried out in cooperation with the Estonian Folk Art and Craft Union.

Sweaters, vests, and other sweater-like individual garments are welcome in the competition. Items may be knitted for a specific person to wear or created as a symbolic gift for a cultural figure, friend, pet, or oneself. Groups are encouraged to knit sweaters inspired by Tormis’s concepts for all their members. Creativity will be highly valued.

The initiative is based on broad collaboration. Prior to August, partners are being sought to join and contribute to the project. Knitting teachers and trainers are welcome, as well as organisations, communities, and friendship or activist groups willing to lead regular knitting gatherings and workshops. Possible venues include craft studios and community centres, as well as cafés and restaurants interested in hosting knitting circles.

Detailed competition guidelines will be announced on the composer’s 96th birth anniversary, on 7 August 2026. The submission deadline is 7 May 2030, and the project will culminate in an exhibition and a digital exhibition. This is a nationwide initiative open to all interested participants, including those from outside Estonia. The campaign supports the continuity of choral music and local handicraft traditions.

Partners are sought who:
- are willing to lead knitting trainings or workshops;
- run a café or restaurant with space for knitting circle meetings;
- contribute to promoting local wool and materials;
- help share information about the project within their networks.

If you are interested, please fill in the APPLICATION.
Contact: info@veljotormis.com

Photo from Sae Farm in Kuusalu Parish, where Estonian native sheep are raised – a heritage breed in need of protection.