DECORAH, Iowa —Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, invites everyone to enter pieces in “Past/Present/Future of Folk Art,” a special juried exhibition of contemporary folk art. This specially themed folk art show celebrates the past, the present, and the future of Norwegian folk art in the United States and abroad. Artists can honor folk art masters of the past, draw inspiration from contemporary culture bearers, explore what folk art might become in the future, or play with some combination of past, present, and future all in one piece!
Artworks must have been completed between March 1, 2021, and April 30, 2025. Entry forms are available at vesterheim.org or by calling 563-382-9681. Forms, along with pictures of the piece and a $25 fee must be received before April 30, 2025. Artists will be notified by May 23, 2025, if their piece has been selected for the show, which will be on view from July 11, 2025, to January 11, 2026.
Artworks must follow historical Norwegian folk art traditions in technique, materials, colors, and style, or be contemporary departures from the historical with some elements that visually link the artwork to Norwegian folk art tradition. They must be created in mediums that celebrate traditional Norwegian folk art and highlight the artist’s unique and personal technical skills and design decisions. Collaborative projects are also an option.
Every other year, Vesterheim presents a juried show of submitted artwork based on a theme. Artists from all over the country have shared their pieces through these Vesterheim exhibits. This year’s theme connects with the 200th anniversary of Norwegian emigration and how the rich history of Norwegian folk art has both followed traditions and adjusted techniques throughout time and place.
Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to engage in the conversation of the American immigrant journey through the lens of the Norwegian-American experience. Vesterheim offers innovative and interactive exhibits, classes, and programs, both at the dynamic campus and park in scenic Decorah, Iowa, and online at vesterheim.org and Vesterheim social media. For more information on exhibits, classes, programs, tours, membership opportunities, and ways to donate and volunteer, connect at vesterheim.org, (563) 382-9681, and Vesterheim, 520 W. Water St., P.O. Box 379, Decorah, IA, 52101-0379.
