With his lifelong work, Håvard Larsen has distinguished himself as one of the foremost custodians of the Sámi duodji tradition in our time. For 40 years, he has contributed to the preservation, further development, and innovation of this traditional craft, and his efforts are today seen as a central part of our national cultural heritage. Therefore, the Centre for Northern Peoples has nominated Larsen for the King's Medal of Merit.
Despite assimilation policies and the loss of Sami knowledge traditions, Håvard Larsen, through dedicated work and strong creativity, has become one of the most significant duojárat within hard-sløyd in Sápmi. His work combines tradition and innovation, elevating duodji to a high artistic level. Over 40 years as a craftsperson and artist, Larsen has demonstrated that duodji can be a high-quality professional pursuit. His works are characterised by precision, an understanding of materials, and artistic strength, and have inspired new generations of craftspeople.
On Saturday 13 June, Håvard Larsen will be recognised for his work with the awarding of the King's Medal of Merit. The medal will be presented at Davvi Álbmogiid Guovddás OS / Centre for Northern Peoples, which is organising an open day from 12.00 pm so that many can witness this significant event.
We are so fortunate that we have completed a project documenting and disseminating Håvard Larsen's fantastic work over 40 years as a duojár. To end this by him being awarded the King's medal is a great achievement, and very well deserved! Says museum director Lisa Vangen, who has also had the main responsibility for curating the exhibition about Larsen.
Håvard Larsen has received awards, honours and recognition for his work over decades. The list of accolades demonstrates professional excellence and paints a clear picture of his significance as a craftsman. His works are represented in museums and exhibitions both regionally and nationally, underpinning his status as an artist of national importance. Now, the King's medal of merit for outstanding achievement is next in line. – We are very much looking forward to attending this event, and not least to acknowledging the great and important work Håvard Larsen has done over many decades. I hope many people make their way to the centre this Saturday and join in the celebration of our duojár, says Managing Director Svein O. Leiros.
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Contact: Svein O. Leiros, Managing Director 957 93799 or
Lisa Vangen, Museum Manager 911 04 059
Programme of the day:
12:00-16:00 Exhibition Håvard Larsen - A Life as a Duojár is open to the public
12:00-16:00 Kiosk sales with hot meal, coffee and cakes
2.00 PM Presentation of the King's Medal of Merit to Håvard Larsen