Artist Arna Rennan will give a presentation about emigration from central Norway featuring songs, images, and anecdotes that she collected in Bøverdalen, Norway. Between 1900 and 1920, half of the population of Bøverdalen immigrated to the United States. Another portion of the population left around 1950 to join relatives who had settled in the United States. Economic and social conditions were among the primary reasons for leaving. Arna takes a closer look at the existing class system found in Norway at the time and how the rural communities dealt with poverty. She will share some of these stories to bring the immigrant experience to life.

This is a hybrid presentation. Join Arna at Vesterheim or watch from home on Zoom. If you are joining in person, just show up. If you are joining online, register for the Zoom link here.

This presentation is in connection with the exhibit Seven Summers, featuring painting and stories by Arna Rennan and on view at Vesterheim through May 27, 2024. The exhibit is made possible by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from Barbara and Dale Henning.

Arna Rennan is a painter and musician who received her training at the National Academy of Art in Oslo and at the Institute for Folk Culture, University of Telemark in Rauland. Her perspectives are formed through art and music as they present themselves historically. As a Norwegian and American citizen, she incorporates both perspectives in her work and presentations. Arna has given cultural presentations, concerts, and exhibitions at significant venues in the Midwest and beyond. Her artwork is recognized both in Norway and the Midwest and is part of public collections.