Folk Art exhibit starts at Vesterheim

What's happening today in the world of Norwegian-inspired folk art?  "The National Norwegian-American Folk Art Exhibition," a judged show at Vesterheim starting Friday, will provide answers to that question.

The annual exhibition celebrates the past, present, and future of folk art by encouraging and inspiring emerging and established folk artists to develop their craft. It features woodworking, knifemaking, metalwork, rosemaling, and weaving, and includes stories from the artists about their pieces–the craft and inspiration behind the artwork.

As part of the exhibition, artists compete for ribbons. Judges 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. Ribbons are placed next to winning entries on July 25th, the opening day of Decorah's Nordic Fest celebration.