Craftsmen in Rollag, Norway, preserve cultural heritage with traditional techniques

In Rollag, Norway, young blacksmith Øystein Parelius Hatle employs traditional forging techniques to preserve cultural heritage, recently crafting a key for an old wooden church. Similarly, carpenter Kristina Løland utilizes age-old methods in building homes while contemplating the environmental and health impacts of modern materials.

Elise Johansen Make, a section leader at Buskerudmuseet, highlights the essential role of specialized craftsmen in heritage preservation, voicing concern over the dwindling number of skilled artisans familiar with these traditional methods. Despite a rise in traditional craftsmen due to increasing interest, there remains a significant shortage of those capable of employing these methods.

Mattias Øhra, a university lecturer at the University of Southeast Norway, argues that practical skills like traditional craftsmanship are vital for cultural preservation and fostering a circular economy. He emphasizes the importance of integrating hands-on learning in schools, advocating for a balance between practical knowledge and theoretical study.

Løland, who originally aspired to be a furniture maker, expresses her passion for traditional craftsmanship, seeking to understand the longevity of historic structures and aiming to pass on this cultural legacy. She engages actively in maintaining the heritage embodied in ancient building techniques, finding joy and pride in her work.

Meanwhile, Hatle, 21, recently received a cultural scholarship from his municipality to further his craft in blacksmithing, revealing his artistic motivation to create beautiful and functional objects like axes and railings. His recent project involved making a key that had not unlocked the old wooden church door in generations, showcasing a deep commitment to preserving history through craftsmanship.