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This exhibition shows part of a recent collection that Orest Kormašov has assembled in a short time. His collection features bicycles bought as new in Estonia in the first half of the 20^th century. There are bicycles produced in Germany, England, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, Hungary and the Russian Empire.

The oldest bicycle at the exhibition is a “Liva” from 1913, which is still being restored, and the youngest is a German reparation bike “Simson Suhl” from 1950. Most bicycles have been restored, some are in process, and some are being redesigned.

This exhibition came to life mainly due to two reasons:

The first is to offer the chance to see the perfect shape, details, construction and mechanics of human-powered transport devices built nearly 100 years ago. Even though time destroys nearly everything man creates, it has spared some important parts. The bicycles have kept their original function and work flawlessly after restoration. As if this is not enough, they also offer aesthetic enjoyment with their proportions and lovely details. The frames with rusty signs of time only add to their value!

The second reason is to call upon the staff at Tallinn University as a “green university” to use the healthier and more environmental method of transport that even lecturers and professors should not shun. The design of the modern human-powered machine has interestingly moved back to its roots. Only the material they are made of has changed. The main function – to transport a person in an energy-efficient and flexible manner from A to B – has remained. Dozens of gears and expensive accessories are not at all necessary. It would be nice if a well-designed bicycle from today would ride as well in 100 years as the ones you will see at this exhibition.

Owner and restorer of the collection: Orest Kormašov
Design of the exhibition: Orest Kormašov and Krista Aren
Curator: Krista Aren