ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: ANDERS KVÅLE RUE

Anders Kvåle Rue is a renowned and leading Norwegian artist, celebrated for his exquisite Viking and saga art. His illustrious career includes illustrating the Norwegian edition of the saga masterpiece, Flateyjarbok, showcasing his exceptional ability to bring ancient tales to life through vivid and historically accurate illustrations. One of his distinguished works from Flateyjarbok holds the honor of being featured in the Icelandic passport, a testament to his artistic prowess and cultural significance.

Reflecting on his work, Rue states, "To me, having always envied the classical illustrators of Snorri’s Kings’ sagas, such as Werenskiold, Egedius, and so on, illustrating Flateyjarbok is as close to being a dream assignment as they come. This isn’t just a magnificent book, but it has a historical gravity and such a rich and unique content. The combined force of the different texts makes Flateyjarbok a unique source of knowledge, not just about our own story as a people going back to mythical times, via the Viking age and up to the medieval period, but also about a culture, a way of thinking and experiencing life that is now long gone."

Beyond his contributions to literature, Rue's talents have graced the silver screen. He played a pivotal role in the Hollywood movie The Northman, where his expertise in Viking aesthetics significantly enhanced the film's visual storytelling. His creative ventures also extend to stage design and film work, where he seamlessly blends historical accuracy with artistic creativity.

Rue's passion for Viking heritage is further exemplified through his Viking group, Olav's Men, dedicated to honoring the legacy of Saint Olav Haraldsson. This group not only keeps the spirit of Viking traditions alive but also boasts a replica Viking ship, symbolizing their commitment to preserving and celebrating Norwegian history. Anders Kvåle Rue's contributions continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.