Lena Vida
In contemporary Norway, traditional dress is entangled in complex narratives of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage. Amid these narratives, a new artistic exploration is emerging in the Tøyen neighborhood of Oslo—a multicultural and urban space that calls for new forms of local expression. The Tøyendrakt project responds to this call, not through nostalgic reconstruction, but by creating a contemporary artistic platform for self-expression and community storytelling.
Tøyendrakten (Tøyen festive attire) designed by Lena Vida
details of the Tøyendrakt
The vest and the accompanying bag of the Tøyendrakt (Tøyen festive attire) has a deep faded burgundy color, echoing the colours of Tøyen market square. The black skirt features a burgundy sash detail; the apron includes patchwork imagery inspired by the paving of the square, while the vest and accompanying bag are intricately embroidered with flowers from the Botanical Garden—symbolizing global diversity rooted in a single shared setting
EMBROIDERY
The embroideries on the Tøyendrakt are based on Vidas paintings of the flowers at the Oslo Botanic Gardens. Just as there are flowers both from Norway and the whole world in the botanical gardens, there are people with roots from the whole world at Tøyen, Oslo.
Tøyen Torg on the apron
The apron shows motifs from Tøyen torg: such as the tall blocks and the files on the market square.
Bead embroidered Jewelry
The design of the festive attire is accompanied by bead embroidered jewelry which is work on the neckline and chest.
Interested in owning or making a Tøyendrakt?
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