Skjælingsdrakt

This National costume, called Skjælingsdrakt, is based on the dress traditions found in Øvre Numeral (Upper Numedal) during the second half of the 1800s. The bunad gets its name from the stiffened and wavy hem in the waist of the dress, which isn’t pictured in this painting.

This type of costume is highly customisable with choice of ribbons and patterns, and of course the colours of these which the wearer can choose. This one is based on the costume of a friend of mine, who actually got married in her beautiful national costume.

This year has been a bit different, which also includes a different way Norway has spent celebrating its national day. Usually there are large parades and lots of people gathering, but due to Corvid-19 that hasn't been possible. Therefore I decided to paint some of Norway's national costumes, which are often seen during our national day. Call it my way of partaking in the celebration.