Scandinavia House is currently hosting an exhibition titled “Nordic Echoes – Tradition in Contemporary Art,” featuring the works of 24 artists from the Upper Midwest region of the United States. The exhibition explores the intersection of traditional Nordic art forms with contemporary interpretations by artists who draw inspiration from their Nordic heritage.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is a video installation by Finnish artist Tia Keobounpheng titled “WAYFIND.” This piece serves as a self-portrait and a search for the artist’s Sámi heritage, reflecting on themes of ancestry and homeland. Keobounpheng’s work showcases the overlapping layers of landscapes and traditions that shape her identity.
Curated by Sally Yerkovich, the exhibition highlights the diverse artistic sources that influence the participating artists. While some artists in the show may not have Nordic descent, they all engage with Nordic traditions in unique ways. The artworks on display offer new interpretations of traditional techniques, such as Norwegian Rosemaling and Swedish Dala horse ornamentation.
Materials play a significant role in the exhibition, with artists using reindeer antlers, buffalo hide, and other regional materials to create their pieces. Some artworks, like John Frandy’s intricate Mantle Clock and Lisa Wiitala’s Finnish ryijy series, showcase the artists’ connection to nature and local fauna. Beth Kraus’s guinea pig carrier made from birch bark is a whimsical example of how traditional objects can be reimagined with a contemporary twist.
The exhibition raises questions about the preservation of traditional skills and the importance of passing down these practices to future generations. By adapting traditional techniques to local materials and contexts, the artists in “Nordic Echoes” demonstrate the ongoing relevance of Nordic artistic traditions.
“Nordic Echoes – Tradition in Contemporary Art” will be on display at Scandinavia House until August 2 before traveling to various museums in the Upper Midwest region. This exhibition serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Nordic art and the innovative ways in which contemporary artists are reinterpreting and expanding upon these traditions.
