Once Swedish kjolväskor (skirt purses or pockets), part of the Swedish folkdräkt (folk dress), were used to carry oats or salt so the cows would follow you home. Today, they may hold your cell phone or your car keys! This practical decorative bag serves as a reminder of heritage and as a focal point of beauty as it carries your belongings.

Natalie Norman has been central to the preservation, and evolution, of Swedish embroidered kjolväskor (waist bags) in America. Natalie’s work has been nationally and internationally recognized. In 2019, she received a folk art fellowship from the American Scandinavian Foundation to study traditional embroidery techniques at Sätergläntan and Mora Folkhögskola in Darlarna, Sweden. Today we welcome her to the Nordic Center for her first solo exhibition & Skjoväska: Swedish Skirt Bag Workshop. Join us for a colorful celebration of Swedish folk art!

Gallery hours:  Fridays 12-4pm | Weekends 1-4pm