Duodji

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Duodji, is a centuries old Sami handicraft, that dates back to a time when the Sami were far more isolated from the outside world than they are today. Duodji tools and clothing accoutrements served their purpose to be functional and useful, however this does not means that the Sami handicraft is unartistic. Sami doudji artist are able to bring function and art together in such a delicate way to create beautiful works of art in their own right.

These functional items include, knives, cases, ladies bags, wooden cups, certain articals of clothing, etc. Duodji items were made and meant to be used in an everyday work environment.

1 Materials used
2 Well known Sami Duodji artists
3 Gakti
4 See also
5 External links

[edit] Materials used

Traditionally Sami handicraft was divided into two sub-groups, - men’s and women's handicraft - men used mostly wood and antlers as well as other bones from reindeers when crafting, women used leather, and roots. The traditional Sami colours are red, green, blue and yellow.

[edit] Well known Sami Duodji artists

Duodji artist are still active in Sapmi and still carrying on the traditions of the Doudji. Although there have been slight changes in the traditional Duodji, today they are considered valuable pieces of art by collectors from all over the world. Some of the Duodji artists today are Olov Svonni, Martin Kuorak, Anders Sunna, Lars Pirak and Per Olof Utsi.

[edit] Gakti

The factual accuracy of this section is disputed.
Please see the relevant discussion on the talk page.(March 2008)

The traditional costume, the gákti or kolt, is of great cultural importance and is mainly used for weddings, funerals, confirmations and other cultural events. The kolt’s appearance differs from place to place and it tends to be longer in southern Sápmi than in the north. Traditionally leather, sinews, and wool was used to make the kolt, today however both velvet and silk can be used.