Learn Hardanger in the Hardanger region of Norway!

Almost two years ago I visited Norway to research for my new book Early-Style Hardanger. One of the primary aims of my visit was to go to the Hardanger Folk Museum in Utne. (The other big thing was to be in Bergen for Norwegian Constitution Day and see the amazing parade!)

I spent some time there with Agnete Sivertsen, the director of the museum, who generously gave me her time and shared with me her knowledge. I really appreciate the fact that Agnete sees her job as not only a custodian of the beautiful, old, historical examples of Hardanger, but also as custodian of the skills for making Hardanger embroidery and the traditional costumes of the area.

With this in mind, it is no surprise that Agnete regularly runs courses in Hardanger at the museum. The next scheduled classes are in September, and Agnete would be pleased to welcome participants from all over the world. (Many Norwegians speak excellent English, so language will not be a barrier!)

Edit: It has been pointed out to me that not everyone speaks English, of which I am quite cognisant, however, as my blog is written in English, much of my audience are English speakers. For those who speak other languages, it is recommended that you contact the museum to see if you will be able to communicate successfully at the course!

From the course of the Hardanger Folk Museum in 2012. Photo: Margunn Sundfjord

Learn how to sew Hardanger embroidery the way we do it in Hardanger! From the 17th century onwards women in the region have sewn Hardanger embroidery as part of the local costume traditions. Since then the interest for this unique handiwork has spread to most parts of the world. At the Hardanger Folk Museum we arrange courses in Hardanger embroidery. Let our teachers show you the secrets and techniques of the handiwork, in the heart of the area where it once emerged. See our exhibition of hardanger embroidery, the largest collection in Norway.

The Hardanger Folk museum is located in idyllic surroundings, 300 m from the ferry quay at Utne. At the museum the history and culture of the region is brought to you by changing exhibitions, concerts and other arrangements all year round. Overnight stay at one of Norway’s oldest hotels. Utne Hotel has been open continuously since 1722 and has long traditions in giving thought and consideration for the hotel guests.

Three day course with guided tours in exhibits and collections, lectures, overnight stay and full board.

Dates:
23rd – 25th September 2016
Registration before August 20
If less than 5 registrations, the course might be cancelled.

Prices:
Prices include 3 nights at the historic Utne Hotel, all meals and course expenses. Material for sewing comes in addition, price depends on what course attendants choose to sew.
Course, incl. overnight stay, double room, full pension 5690 NOK
Single room supplement 900 NOK

Tailormade courses are available for groups and individuals all year on request.

Contact:
Hardanger Folk Museum N-5778 Utne
Tel: 0047 47 47 98 84
Email: post@hvm.museum.no
Web: hardangerfolkemuseum.no

While I haven’t done one of these courses, I know that you will have a fantastic time. Utne is a most beautiful village, situated on the Hardangerfjord. Agnete is warm, welcoming and knowledgable, and my own stay at the Utne Hotel was delightful. The collection in the museum, of which you will be given a guided tour, is outstanding. And you never know, by that time, Early-Style Hardanger might just have made its way onto the bookshelves of the museum shop…