In mid-May, Martin “QBA” Kaares’ retrospective exhibition of works from the past five years opened in the grand gallery of the first-floor foyer of the Research Library. Considering the unique features of the space, with its high ceilings and ample room, the artist brought nine large-format artworks and hung them on the walls. QBA’s works are sure to bring color and great emotion to all visitors at Rävala ave 10.
Martin Kaares, known by his artist name QBA, is an Estonian artist who lives and works in Tallinn. He graduated with a master’s degree from the scenography department of the Estonian Academy of Arts. However, instead of pursuing a career in theater, he turned to painting. Over the past 17 years, he has held around 20 solo exhibitions and participated in more than 25 group exhibitions both locally and internationally. QBA is a member of both the Estonian Painters’ Association and the Estonian Artists’ Association. One of his greatest achievements in recent years is winning the Grand Prize at the Jurmala Marine Paintings Biennial in 2019, which led to a spectacular solo exhibition at the Jurmala City Museum in the summer of 2022.
Martin has been involved in art since the first grade and has been connected to it throughout his life. The name QBA originates from his youth when he was actively involved in graffiti. Influences from those times persist to this day, such as bright colors and powerful wire-like outlines. Nowadays, while he primarily uses acrylic and canvas instead of spray cans, he still loves the electric feeling that comes from the unique work process. As he is not a linear painter, he never knows the final outcome.
You can learn more about QBA’s artworks on his website www.qba.ee and on Instagram under the name QBATRON.
The exhibition is open until August 23.