Åse Frogner

Åse Frogner, born on 10 February 1934 in Larvik, Norway, is a distinguished textile artist and educator. She received her education at the Vestfold Husflidskole (1951–1952) and the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry (1953–1957). Following her studies, she worked at Sigrun Berg’s weaving studio (1957–1958) before joining the faculty of the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry in 1958, where she taught dyeing and materials science.

Frogner’s artistic approach is noted for its emphasis on color harmony and abstract compositions. She employs various techniques, including double weaving, soumak, and pile weaving, to explore the potential of textile fibers and the effects of these methods on color nuances. Her works often feature non-figurative designs that focus on surface, form, and texture, with color resonance as a guiding principle.

Throughout her career, Frogner has contributed to numerous public art installations, creating tapestries for institutions such as Honningsvåg Municipal Hall, the University of Tromsø, and the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. She has also collaborated with various Norwegian textile manufacturers as a designer.

Frogner has been an active participant in the art community, holding solo exhibitions at venues like the Oslo Art Association (1977) and Gallery 71 in Tromsø (1978). She has also taken part in group exhibitions, including the Annual National Art Exhibition in Oslo (1976–1978) and “Norwegian Textile Art in the 20th Century” at Høvikodden (1970).

In addition to her artistic practice, Frogner has served in various professional roles, including as a board member of the National Association for Norwegian Arts and Crafts (1964–1966) and the Young Artists’ Society (1972). Her contributions have been instrumental in advancing contemporary Norwegian textile art.