The Artistic County of Telemark

Ever since the mid 19th Century, Telemark has played host to numerous artists and folklorists, attracted by the cultural traditions present locally and the significant interest in national traditions.

Ever since the mid 19th Century, Telemark has played host to numerous artists and folklorists, attracted by the cultural traditions present locally and the significant interest in national traditions.
These travellers include the major artists of the time such as Halfdan Egedius, Erik Werenskiold and Thorvald Erichsen. World-reknowned Edvard Munch was especially inspired by Kragerø, which he described as the pearl of the coastal towns. More recently, these traditions have been upheld by Henrik Sørensen and Harald Kihle who for decades have found their inspiration in Vinje in particular. Their work can be viewed at the gallery of Vinje Biletgalleri near to Mjonøy in Vinje.

Nutheim Artist Hotel in Seljord was also popular among artists, and it is nowadays particlular linked to the Grøstad brothers, Erlend and Terje. It is worthwhile taking a break here to admire the many works of art on the walls.

At Grimdalstunet in Skafså in Tokke, there are guided tours of the works of the celebrated sculptress Anne Grimdalen, at the beautiful mountain farm where she spent her childhood.

Rauland Kunstmuseum also deserves a mention. It is home to the works of the sculptors Dyre Vaa and Knut Skinnarland who both originated from Rauland.

Whenever you might visit, there are art exhibitions throughout the region. They are all listed in a comprehensive leaflet published by Telemark District Council.