Artist to teach the Swedish way of 'tramp craft'

Today there is a resurgence of interest in making useful, handmade items from scraps.

We call it “repurposing.” In Sweden, it is called “luffarslöjd.” Artist and maker Faith Clover will be visiting the Cloquet Public Library at 6 p.m. Friday, May 10 to show some examples of luffarslöjd. Participants will be able to try out the craft by making a hook or two from wire. Traditionally, items were made out of scrap wire people had around their farms and homes.

Please register for this event by calling 218-879-1531 or by stopping by the front desk at the library. This program, sponsored by Arrowhead Library System, was funded in part or in whole with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Below is an interview with Faith:

Q: When did you first realize you are an artist?

Faith Clover: I have always been a maker. I took art classes in high school and college but wasn’t sure I would be an artist. The teachers at my children’s school convinced me to be an art teacher. I went back to school to get my license to teach, then a master’s and then a doctorate in teacher education.

Q: What do you enjoy most about being an art educator?

Clover: I love to see my students develop confidence in their own abilities and go on to share their love with others.

Q: In one interview, you touched on Sweden’s commitment to craft education. What could the U.S. learn from Sweden in this area and why do you think it is important?

Clover: I think it has become more and more clear in recent years that children (and adults) thrive when they have opportunities to make things, to experience learning by hand. Our emphasis on test taking and rote learning, even dependence on screens, has narrowed chances for joyful discovery.

Q: What inspires you about Swedish Luffarslöjd?

Clover: Luffarslöjd is literally “tramp craft.” That humble people using very ordinary materials and tools could create beautiful and useful things should be an inspiration to us all.

Q: How many times have you visited Sweden? What are some of your favorite places?

Clover: I believe I have been there six times. I love the museums of Stockholm, especially the Nordiska museet. I’ve traced my heritage in Östergötland, have taken part in small local midsommar celebrations, and met many fine Swedish teachers.

Q: Do you speak Swedish? Do you have a favorite word?

Clover: I’ve tried to learn Swedish several times but seem to have lost my knack for languages. My favorite word? Fika! (Fika is a little similar to English tea — having a break for snacks like pastries and coffee, and discussing the day with friends and colleagues.)