Study of the Lesser-Known Rosemaling Styles of Romsdal and Nordmøre in More og Romsdal

This class will focus on the study of Romsdal and Nordmøre styles found in Møre og Romsdal, and will include a discussion on how the elements from these styles were influenced by rosemaling from the districts of Sør-Trondelag and Oppland. We will visit the Vesterhem collection and museum exhibits to view pieces from Møre og Romsdal, Gudbrandsdalen, and Valdres.

There will be two small class projects – one in the Nordmøre style and one in the Romsdal style. Students may wish to purchase the woodenware for these projects or paint on practice boards during the class.

The designs for this class are based upon elements found on pieces from Møre og Romsdal.

Rosemaling is part of Nancy Odalen’s heritage. Nancy’s rosemaling echos the colors of the west coast of Norway, and the movement of her rosemaling mirrors her families’ traditions and adventures.

Nancy’s journey in the study of rosemaling began with her first Vesterheim rosemaling class in 2001. She has taken classes from instructors that have given generously of their time and talents. 

She is humbled to have received a Gold Medal in 2022 after earning ribbons on five pieces, including one Best in Show at the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Folk Art Exhibition. Nancy has received grants from the Wisconsin Arts Board as a Master Artist to two apprentices, one in 2020-21 and the other in 2022-23. She is also a recipient of one of the 2022-23 Folk Artist Residency grant from Vesterheim. 

Her journey continues as she learns from the old and create designs that come from her soul. It is Nancy’s true joy to share her passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge of rosemaling with others. 

Vesterheim’s rosemaling classes are supported in part by the Wilma A. Anderson Endowment for Rosemaling.

Find information about Vesterheim’s scholarships and local standby waitlist here.