Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, welcomes Norwegian artist and psychotherapist Mona Stenseth for a free presentation about art expression and tradition on May 6 at 7:00 p.m. in Hanson Vesterheim Commons.
Rather than asking how tradition can be preserved unchanged, in this talk, Stenseth asks more urgent questions, “What does it mean to truly carry a tradition forward?” and “How does tradition continue through people?”
“Working at the intersection of identity and ornament, Mona approaches rosemaling (Norwegian decorative painting) in a new way – not simply as decoration, but as a living language, passed down through the generations and shaped by human experience,” Andrew Ellingsen, Director of Folk Art Education, said.
“This presentation is not just for rosemalers, but painters, artists, and those interested in the evolution of folk art,” Andrew continued.
“Mona is an engaging and inspiring presenter! Drawing from both her artistic practice and her background in expressive therapy, she reflects on how tradition is learned, internalized, and transformed across generations,” he continued.
Bringing a contemporary perspective from Norway, Stenseth invites audiences into a deeper reflection on belonging, authorship, and what it means to make tradition personal.
Mona Stenseth was born and raised in the north of Norway and currently lives in Porsgrunn, Norway, where she paints, creates, and teaches in her studio.
This presentation will be livestreamed online. Register for the Zoom link at vesterheim.org/folk-art-school.
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.