The History of Norwegian Sweaters with Laurann Gilbertson
Learn about the history of different types and styles of Norwegian sweaters, including Setesdal, Fana, Marius, and Olympic with the chief curator of the Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School in Iowa. See the work of some important Norwegian knitwear designers, including Unn Soiland Dale, Per Spook, Ellinor Flor, and Solveig Hisdal. Laurann will also talk about the symbolism behind some of the patterns and colors on sweaters made today. Be sure to wear their favorite sweater to the presentation!
Laurann Gilbertson holds a BA in Anthropology and an MS in Textiles & Clothing, both from Iowa State University. She has worked at Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, for 30 years. She worked as the Textile Curator for 19 years and is now the Chief Curator. Among her duties are overseeing the collection of more than 30,000 artifacts, creating exhibitions, and leading Textile Study Tours to Norway.
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, and to participate in the continual evolution of traditional folk art as it meets new influences. 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.
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After growing up in the city and suburbs, the owners of Get Bentz Farm felt a need to be closer to nature and to be more connected to where their food came from. 
