National Exhibition of Folk-Art in the Norwegian Tradition

Rosemaling, Weaving, Woodworking, Knifemaking

Congratulations to the 2012 Ribbon Winners and Gold Medalists! Check here for the list.

Vesterheim’s annual National Exhibition of Folk Art in the Norwegian Tradition is the museum's major summer show and is on view in the galleries on the third floor of the museum’s Main Building each June and July.

Vesterheim invites artists to enter their pieces in the exhibition each year. Guidelines and entry forms for 2012 are posted below for information purposes only. Guidelines for 2013 will be posted in March 2013. If you have questions, contact Laurann Gilbertson, Chief Curator, at or at (563) 382-9681.

The judged exhibition includes knifemaking, rosemaling (Norwegian decorative painting), weaving, and woodworking, all by contemporary American artists working in the Norwegian tradition. The judging occurs in conjunction with Decorah’s Nordic Fest celebration, the last full weekend of July, and winners are announced at that time. Judges award Blue, Red, and White Ribbons representing points that accumulate over successive exhibitions toward a Gold Medal. Judges also present Honorable Mention and Best of Show Awards. Visitors are invited to vote for People’s Choice Awards. Gold Medalists cannot compete for ribbons, but can compete for Best of Show Awards and People’s Choice Awards.

Many of the pieces in the exhibition are for sale by silent auction and it's a great way for folk-art fans to add to their own collection, or start a new one.

Everyone is invited to Vesterheim’s Folk-Art Banquet held the last Friday of July in Luther College’s Peace Dining Room. During the banquet, we honor the Ribbon Winners in National Exhibition of Folk Art in the Norwegian Tradition and new Gold Medalists receive their pins. This is a great chance to meet the artists and celebrate Norwegian folk art. Whether you are an artist, art enthusiast, or interested in learning more about Norwegian folk art, please feel welcome to attend!

Vesterheim's Gold Medalist Virtual Portfolio Launched!
Currently includes medalists from 1969 through 2008.