Eli Nordbø

Eli Ingebjørg Nordbø (27 September 1946 – 1 March 2023) was a Norwegian textile artist renowned for her innovative assemblages and contributions to contemporary textile art. Born in Kristiansand, she developed a distinctive artistic style that combined traditional textile techniques with modern artistic expressions.

Artistic Career

Nordbø’s work often explored the interplay between materials and form, creating pieces that challenged conventional perceptions of textile art. Her assemblage “Rød høst” (1982), part of the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design’s collection, exemplifies her innovative approach.

In 1996, she created “Samtale med tiden,” a collage incorporating paper, lace textiles, and gouache, reflecting her versatility and depth as an artist.

Notable Projects

One of Nordbø’s significant works is the tapestry “Den røde tråd,” located in the Realfagbygget at the University of Bergen. This monumental piece, known as Norway’s largest tapestry, weaves various narratives and themes, offering viewers a rich visual experience.

Over time, “Den røde tråd” suffered damage, including sections being cut or burned. In 2013, Nordbø undertook restoration efforts, sourcing materials across Scandinavia to faithfully restore the tapestry to its original state.

Exhibitions and Legacy

Nordbø’s works have been featured in various exhibitions, including a retrospective titled “Eli Nordbø – et tilbakeblikk” at Galleri BI-Z in Kristiansand from 10 February to 2 March 2024.

Her contributions to textile art have been recognized in several public collections, including the National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design.

Eli Nordbø’s innovative approach and dedication to her craft have left a lasting impact on the field of textile art in Norway.