Iloni Imedemaa

About the museum

In 2004 the artist Ilon Wikland decided to give the originals of her book illustrations to the Estonian state. A suitable place to exhibit the works was found in Haapsalu, in the building at Kooli 5 belonging to the Läänemaa Muuseum (Lääne County Museum), and in 2006 the Ilon Wikland Gallery opened. In addition to the art gallery, the idea arose of creating a child-friendly centre in Haapsalu offering as many activities as possible. When illustrating Astrid Lindgren's books, the ruins of Haapsalu castle, the wooden houses and the sea were often a subconscious inspiration for Ilon. Thus the theme centre Iloni Imedemaa (Ilon's Wonderland) was born; it opened on 1 July 2009. Haapsalu is the place where Ilon Wikland lived as a child with her grandparents.

In January 2014 the fully renovated ground floor and the gallery opened with the new exhibition “Olen alati siin. Ilon” (I Am Always Here. Ilon), designed and curated by Tea Tammelaan. The exhibition includes Ilon Wikland's illustrations, small sculptures, memorabilia, books and applied graphics. In 2014 the exhibition was awarded the Muuseumirott (Museum Rat) as the best permanent exhibition.

In winter the three-storey house is open, with the gallery, a cinema and exhibition hall, Ilon's kitchen and a play room where crafts and theme days take place. Karlsson's room can also be viewed. In summer the Wonderland courtyard with Mattias' house and craft workshop is open, where you can make things from paper and wood, and in the yard you can try target throwing, walking on crutches, fishing and sandbox games. For school and kindergarten groups a 90-minute programme is available by prior booking.

Highlights

• Original book illustrations by Ilon Wikland
• Exhibition “Olen alati siin. Ilon” (I Am Always Here. Ilon), Museum Rat award 2014
• Karlsson's room, Ilon's kitchen and the play room
• In summer the courtyard with Mattias' house and craft workshop
• Crafts and theme days for children

Permanent exhibition

• Olen alati siin. Ilon – The permanent exhibition shows Ilon Wikland's illustrations, small sculptures, memorabilia, books and applied graphics, and introduces the life and work of the artist.

Founded

2009

Operated by

SA Haapsalu ja Läänemaa Muuseumid

Admission & discounts

Tickets with a family card are 40% cheaper. Museum staff and members of ICOM and ICOMOS also enter free. Gift cards for the museum card are sold at the ticket desk; the museum card is valid.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

A ramp beside the outdoor steps allows people with mobility impairments to reach the museum. The building has an accessible toilet and a lift serving the different floors; the exhibition includes tactile exhibits. Help can be obtained by calling +372 527 6244.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations
• Playground / play area
• Kids’ birthday parties

In the play room you can make things, try on costumes and draw; in the hall you can search for details with a magnifying glass. Birthday parties and theme days are organised.

Getting there & parking

The museum is in the old town of Haapsalu on Kooli Street, near the sea and the Bishop's Castle.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit