Shown in connection with Vesterheim’s special exhibition Rocks and Hard Places: Emigration through the Lens of Knud Knudsen, this is the last chance to see the film, Album, a beautiful introduction to Knudsen’s world of images. The film was produced by the Norwegian Film institute and translated to English.

Considered one of Norway’s most important photographers, Knudsen (1832-1915) was born in Odda, Hardanger, and he established one of the first photography businesses in the city of Bergen in 1864. Despite the idyllic landscape, Knudsen’s work vividly shows why the ever-present threat of rockslides and avalanches, lack of arable land, lack of economic opportunity, and savage beauty of life on the fjord led to some of the highest rates of emigration per capita from Norway.

On view through Dec. 31, 2018, the exhibit explores emigration through first person accounts, family histories, and Knudsen’s stunning photography. Considered one of Norway’s most important photographers, Knudsen (1832-1915) was born in Odda, Hardanger, and he established one of the first photography businesses in the city of Bergen in 1864. In addition to his passion for photography, he also had a special interest in horticulture and the fruit trees grown in his home community.

The exhibit and special programming is sponsored by Gerald and Mary Jo Boman, The Broadway Group in memory of Eva Alsaker, David and Kirsten Heine, The Family Care Clinic, and The Perfect Edge. Additional sponsorship support provided by Curt and Dorothy Askelson, Janet Coe, Jon and Mary Hart, John and Kristie Leyman, Corey and Suzanne Mineck, Jeff and Marilyn Roverud, Kathleen Siedhoff, and Bill and Kathi Wild.