Tove Pedersen
Tove Pedersen (b. May 11, 1945, Oslo) is a Norwegian textile artist whose work has evolved from political themes to embrace elements of pop art.
Education and Early Career
Pedersen earned a diploma from the textile department of the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry (Statens håndverks- og kunstindustriskole) between 1964 and 1968. She furthered her studies in art education at the State Teacher’s College (Statens lærerskole i forming) from 1968 to 1969.
Artistic Practice
In the early 1970s, Pedersen’s work was characterized by social realism, focusing on political subjects such as women’s liberation and anti-oppression themes. Her tapestries from this period, including “EEC-teppet,” “Hvem skal eie morgendagen?” and “Kvinner på vei til fabrikken,” feature figures arranged in a manner reminiscent of folk art, with decorative and often caricatured depictions.
By the 1980s, her focus shifted towards more universal human experiences, emphasizing themes of joy and eroticism. Works like “I farta” and “Kroppsleik” are noted for their dynamic movement and humor. During this time, she also began experimenting with appliqué techniques, contrasting various fabric qualities and textures, as seen in pieces like “Schwarzes Kafé” (1984).
Notable Works and Commissions
Pedersen has created several significant works, including:
- “Sunday Afternoon” (1972): A tapestry handwoven with wool, linen, and artificial silk, part of the National Museum’s collection.
- “Mercedes Benz” (1997): A tapestry reflecting her engagement with pop art elements.
She has also designed banners for trade unions and completed various public art commissions.
Exhibitions and Memberships
Pedersen has held solo exhibitions at venues such as Unge Kunstneres Samfund (1975) and Galleri 1 in Bergen (1976). Her work has been featured in group exhibitions, including the Autumn Exhibition (Høstutstillingen) and the Eastern Exhibition (Østlandsutstillingen).
She was instrumental in establishing the Norwegian Textile Artists (Norske Tekstilkunstnere) in 1977 and has been an active member of various artists’ organizations.
Teaching and Influence
From 1969 to 1989, Pedersen taught drawing at Elisenberg Upper Secondary School in Oslo. She has also served as a guest lecturer at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry, influencing a generation of textile artists.
Legacy
Through her dynamic and evolving artistic practice, Tove Pedersen has made significant contributions to Norwegian textile art, blending traditional techniques with contemporary themes and inspiring future generations of artists.