He graduated from Tartu Art Grammar School and later masonry and sculpture faculty in Tartu Art School in 1991.
Heikki Leis is an Estonian artist and photographer whose work stands out for its exceptional versatility. His creative range spans from sculptures and intricate pencil drawings to complex photographic projects. Leis approaches each project with a unique style and visual language, encompassing staged costume photography, period-accurate simulations, distorted documentary shots, and imagined film scenes.
His work has received widespread recognition. Leis has published two photo books: "Afterlife" (2017), which explores themes of life and death, and "Eesti Meister" (2018), focusing on local craftsmen and their work. In addition, he has held numerous solo exhibitions and participated in many group exhibitions both in Estonia and internationally. His works have been featured in various publications worldwide.
Leis’s art has earned him several accolades, including the Addo Vabbe Award in 2019. His photographs have also achieved success in international photography competitions, affirming his position in the contemporary art and photography scene.
Awards & Honors
2024 Gold medal in Black & White Photo Contest film/analog category by reFocus Awards
2022 1st place analog/portrait category in International Photography Awards, Ney York, USA
2021 2nd place analog /portrait category in International Photography Awards, Ney York, USA
2019 Addo Vabbe art price 2019, Tartu, Estonia
2019 "Post truth-era" 1st place analog/film fine art in International Photography Awards, Ney York, USA
2017 Pentax Portrait Photo of the Year 2017, 1st Prize, Tallinn, Estonia
2013 Pentax Portrait Photo of the Year 2013, 3rd Prize, Tallinn, Estonia
2010 Pentax Portrait Photo of the Year 2010, 2nd Prize, Tallinn, Estonia