Joyce Aakre is a valuable addition to our Dassel community.  She is involved in community events, such as the Dassel Art Tour.  She creates exhibits for the History Center and offers some of her art for sale at the Dassel History Center Gift Shop.  We are honored to feature her as Dassel Artist of the month.  In her own words...

 

 

 

My interest in Rosemaling, which is a Norwegian folk art, started when I was a stay-at home Mom.  I thought this would be an excellent Cottage Business as I am of Norwegian descent and lived in a very Norwegian community.  I soon found out that this type of art took many years of learning and practice. I spent years studying with different artists and numerous painters from Norway until I felt I could then be considered an artist.

I appreciate many different art forms from oil and watercolor painting, pottery, sculpture, stained glass, wood working, jewelry, quilting and weaving. I love buying work from the other artists as I truly treasure their skills and understand the value of their work.

I refer to my art as a reflection of the Scandinavian heritage that is here in Dassel.  It makes me happy when people say, “I received a gift that you painted and I still have it”, especially the Christmas ornaments I paint.

I moved to Dassel 38 years ago due to a job change within my family. I stayed in the Dassel Community even after my family has moved.  We are very fortunate in the area to have so many talented theater performers, musicians and artists that are supported by the surrounding community.  Their talent is inspiring.