Vesterheim Museum soliciting entries for Folk Art Competition

(Left to right): Vesterheim Executive Director Steve Johnson, Decorah Bank & Trust President Ben Grimstad and Vesterheim Development Associate Nick Klein

Vesterheim Museum has announced details of this year's "National Exhibition of Folk Art in the Norwegian Tradition."

This exhibition of original woodworking, knifemaking, rosemaling, and weaving by contemporary American artists working in the Norwegian tradition will be on view in the museum's Main Building from June 12th through July 25th, from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. each day.

Last year, the exhibition included over 170 pieces by 112 artists from 18 states. "Thousands of visitors from all over the country come to Vesterheim to view this exhibition, and we're excited that so many artists are able to share their work with the public through it," said Vesterheim Chief Curator Laurann Gilbertson.

As part of the exhibition, artists may choose to offer their pieces for sale by silent auction. Along with selling their pieces, exhibitors compete for ribbons. Judges for the exhibition award Blue, Red, and White Ribbons representing points that accumulate over successive exhibitions toward a Vesterheim Gold Medal. Judges also present Honorable Mention Awards and Best of Show Awards. Visitors vote for People's Choice Awards.

Complete rules for entering pieces are available at www.vesterheim.org.  If you would like more information, contact Laurann Gilbertson at (563) 382-9681 or at info@vesterheim.org.