Life and works

They decided to take abode at Erik Larsa-tjønna, near Graddis in Saltdal. There is no proper road to the area, so they transported the materials for their home and studios by horse and dogsled. Surrounded by natural beauty, they have found inspiration and calm for their work. The artists have had several exhibits and done decorative works for private and public areas, yet also found the time to devote themselves to arts and culture policy, Sami rights, and nature conservation issues. They were a part of establishing the first school for higher education in arts in Northern Norway, in Kabelvåg in 1983. They also contributed to the foundation of The North Norwegian Art Centre in 1979.

Adde and Zetterquist were an active part of the protests of 1968 at Alta (“Alta-aksjonen”), and the realisation of Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park. The latter involved both nature conservation and the protection of Sami rights concerning reindeer herding. Adde received The King’s Medal of Merit in 2006, and Zetterquist in 2017, particularly for their work for nature conservation, Sami rights, art, and the conveying of art. Placing the gallery adjacent to The National Park Centre is therefore represents a convergence of important aspects of Adde and Zetterquist’s lives: Art, nature and Sami culture. The two departments enforce each other, and together they are able to give visitors a broader and more complex experience.