Vesterheim invites everyone to an opening reception, gallery walk, and lecture for the exhibit Seven Summers on November 18, 2023, from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

The event will begin with a gallery walk-through of the exhibit with artist Arna Rennan at 1:00 p.m. in Vesterheim Main Building.

At 2:00 p.m., Arna will present Per Spelman Had Only One Cow (and 19 Children) in Vesterheim Commons.

Many immigrants to the Midwest know the song about Per Spelman who traded his only cow for a fiddle. But more than a song, Per Spelman was a real person — a legendary traveling fiddle player and shoemaker who lived on a small farm named Kringelhaugen in Bøverdalen. He had 19 children (or more), most of whom immigrated to the Midwest.

Through pictures, folk songs, and stories about Per Spelman and others like him, you will learn not just about Per but also about those who immigrated and why. This 50-minute program is especially suited for elementary school children and includes interaction with song and dance. All ages are sure to be entertained and leave with food for thought.

The event is free, and refreshments will be served. You are welcome to attend the gallery walk or the lecture or both!

This exhibit is made possible by a generous gift to the Vesterheim Annual Fund from Barbara and Dale Henning and will run through May 27, 2023.

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. Rennan 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.