Eight Seasons in Sápmi, the Land of the Sámi People

Step into the northernmost reaches of Europe! The indigenous Sámi are a people whose nation spans Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. They are defined by a common past, traditional crafts, and their historically nomadic herding practices, and renowned for their exquisite crafts, reindeer herding, and the 400-year-old Winter Market in Jokkmokk, Sweden.

In this exhibit, the Sámi are explored and revealed through their own artwork and artifacts, and photographs of their traditionally nomadic lifestyle. This exhibit from Jokkmokk, Sweden, is augmented by the art photography of Danish-American Birgitte Aarestrup, and prints by famed Minneapolis artist Kurt Seaberg.

Come learn about the people of Sápmi through the functional and beautiful objects they use and create. From a harsh and barren environment, the Sámi retrieve and nurture a bounty of materials, creating distinctive textiles and garments, jewelry and ornamental wear, musical instruments and household wares. The reindeer is both the center of and source for much of the Sámi world. The Sámi are a thoroughly modern and highly organized people; ASI’s exhibit will speak to the Sámi’s endurance and advocacy for themselves in the 21st century.

Photographer Birgitte Aarestrup provides a rare and evocative window into the Sámi landscape and lifeways. She depicts a land of contrasts: of light and dark, of ancient culture and modern technology. A cold climate warmed by the humans inhabiting it. This exhibition presents 40 of Aarestrup’s photos in black and white as well as color. Born in Denmark and currently residing in both California and Sweden, Birgitte Aarestrup is the author of the book “8 Seasons Above the Arctic Circle: The Sámi of Lapland.”

The exhibition Eight Seasons in Sápmi, the Land of the Sámi People, was developed by three partners: Ájtte, the Swedish Mountain and Sámi Museum; Sámi Duodji, the official association for Sámi craft in Sweden; and photographer Birgitte Aarestrup. Exhibit sponsors include Jokkmokk Municipality, County Administrative Board of Norrbotten, and the Swedish Arts Council.

Eight Seasons will be on display in the Turnblad Mansion at ASI January 26 through May 26, 2013. An opening reception and talk will be held on Friday, Jan. 25.