Masterful meeting: Årseth and Ulven
Opening of art exhibition
Valdres sommersymfoni 2026, in collaboration with Valdres Kunstforening, presents an exhibition highlighting two of the region's most prominent visual artists. Sigmund Årseth (1936–2020) and Endre Ulven (1929–2016) have both left a deep mark on Valdres' art and cultural life, and this year's festival gives the audience a rare opportunity to experience their works side by side. The exhibition brings together two artists who, each in their own way, convey the power, light, and rhythm of nature—a true meeting of masters.
Sigmund Årseth is one of Valdres' most famous artists, and his style is characterized by strong, confident lines and a rich color palette. He draws his motifs from nature – both local and national – and his style has clear connections to Impressionism.
Painter and lithographer Jørgen Dukan has described Årseth's art as follows: “Sigmund can stand with both feet firmly planted on the bedrock of his craft and paint the changing moods of the daily rhythm and seasons without losing his lively spontaneity.”
Årseth found his motifs in Valdres, but also in Western Norway, Lofoten, and on trips abroad. Thanks to a generous loan from his widow, Ingebjørg Årseth, the public will be able to experience a broad and representative selection of his works during this year's festival.
Endre Ulven was born in Røn on Norway's national day in 1929 and showed an early talent for drawing and painting. At the age of 16, he held his first exhibition at Fagernes Bokhandel. After studying in Oslo, he returned to his hometown, where he combined his professional life as a bulldozer operator with a lifelong passion for painting.
Ulven left behind an extensive collection of nature motifs from Valdres – images that many will recognize both in their choice of subject matter and mood. His works convey a deep love for the landscape and an ability to capture the quiet, poetic expressions of nature. The exhibition gives the public a unique opportunity to see – and for some also to acquire – original works by this beloved artist.
Together, Årseth and Ulven represent two different but complementary artistic voices. Whereas Årseth works with impressionistic light studies and powerful colors, Ulven takes a more tranquil and naturalistic approach. The exhibition shows how both artists, through their respective expressions, have contributed to shaping the understanding of Valdres' landscape and identity.
The exhibition opens on June 24 at 16.00 in Valdresvegen
