Cooler but still well above normal this week

MPR News helps you turn down the noise and build shared understanding. Turn up your support for this public resource and keep trusted journalism accessible to all. 

Turn Up Your Support

Sweden has a tradition of glass blowing that dates back to the 1500s. The region of Småland - with its ample forests and sandy geography - became known as "

new exhibition at the American Swedish Institute

 showcases the work of eleven Swedish artists, who are infusing the centuries old craft with contemporary innovations.

The cornerstone of the exhibition, Ingalena Klenell's "Homeland" consists of seven glass trees that evoke the trees of her native Sweden. Those same forests represented home for many Swedish immigrants who moved to Minnesota to farm a similar landscape. And then there's the symbolism of planting a tree and putting down roots in a new home.

"This project is about longing," said Klenell on a recent break from installing the crystal forest. "It's that moment when you’re displaced from home… the images start to grow and home becomes something in your mind, not just where you lived."

Accompanying "Homeland" is a series of "postcards," photos that have been transferred onto glass to create a nostalgic image of a voyage. How many immigrants still attempt to find a new home by boat, only to be lost at sea? Just as our memories are imperfect, the postcards are filled with holes, only allowing us a partial view.

ASI's Laura Cederburg says Klenell's pieces are significant because they reflect what so many people feel coming to Minnesota.

" features the work of several contemporary glassblowers responding to traditional pieces in the museum's collection. The results are on display throughout the Turnblad Mansion through October 13.

Arts and Culture

State of the Arts Blog

Marianne Combs

Author

Sweden has a tradition of glass blowing that dates back to the 1500s. The region of Småland – with its ample forests and sandy geography – became known as “The Kingdom of Crystal.” A new exhibition at the American Swedish Institute showcases the work of eleven Swedish artists, who are infusing the centuries old craft…

A new twist on the Swedish tradition of blown glass

Go Deeper.

Like this?

News you can use in your inbox