Arts & Culture Programs

Culture & Conversation Series: Swedish Immigrant Trunk Presentation with Andrea Justus

In-Person | Thu, July 20, 5–6 pm

Join ASI Volunteer Coordinator Andrea Justus to learn about the major waves of Swedish immigration. Hear stories of one of Minnesota’s most prominent 20thcentury Swedish families, explore artifacts that helped these families make Minnesota home, and consider how stories of migration continue today. No advanced registration required. Included as part of ASI Free Thursdays After 3 pm.

Culture & Conversation Series: Exploring the Shaping of Swedish Identity with Byron Nordstrom

In-Person | Thu, August 17, 5–6 pm

Like all national identities, the concept of what it means to be ‘Swedish’ was created. ASI volunteer and retired professor Byron Nordstrom will discuss how art, literature, music, craft, history, and more, were put to the task of defining what it meant to be Swedish during the major waves of immigration to the U.S. No advanced registration required. Included as part of ASI Free Thursdays After 3 pm.

Typiskt svenskt / Typical American Discussion

Virtual | Tue, June 6, 9:30–11 am & Thu, June 8, 5:30–7 pm

Gunn Edberg-Caldwell leads this fun, open discussion about the similarities and differences between Sweden and the United States. What do people generalize or assume about each country or culture? What can one learn from the other? Participants will compare and discover how different yet alike these two countries really are. $15 ($10 ASI member)

Swedish History: The Country, The Nation, The State

Virtual | Thursdays, June 8–July 13, 6:15–7:45 pm

Over six weeks, this class taught by Gregg White will cover the geography (the country), the history (the nation), and the political system (the state) of Sweden.

Students will learn how these three important factors shaped what is known as “Swedishness.” The course will be presented online, and students will be given links to handouts they can print out before each class. $90 ($80 ASI member)

6 June 1523: A Union Dissolved and a Kingdom

Restored with Byron Nordstrom

In-Person | Thu, June 8, 6–7 pm

In celebration of the 500th anniversary of Sweden, join retired professor of History and Scandinavian Studies Byron Nordstrom for a talk on one of the most pivotal moments in Swedish history. Learn about Sweden’s decision to join the Kalmar Union in 1397 and the ensuing revolt that reestablished Sweden as an independent kingdom. Included as part of ASI Free Thursdays After 3 pm.

Crash Course on Nordic Myths

Virtual | Wednesdays, July 12–August 2, 6–7:30 pm

Come explore what experts know about Norse mythology with Old Norse expert Dr. Paul Peterson. Norse myths frequently include a wealth of lore and anecdotes, along with huge casts of characters. Students will attempt to make sense of Norse myths by examining the structures of the tales and investigating the background in which they were written. $60 ($50 ASI member)

Swedish Traditions Throughout the Year

In-Person | Thu, August 31, 1–3 pm

Join instructor Ingela Haaland for a day of fun exploring Swedish traditions through the year. Students will sing traditional songs, try traditional crafts made throughout the year, and learn the history of why these traditions continue in Sweden. This class will be in English. Open to ages 18+, or ages 12+ alongside a registered adult. $18 ($15 ASI member)

Tours

Leaving Your Mark: Artist-Led Tour with ClaesKamp

In-Person | Thu, June 15, 11 am and 2 pm

Experience the new exhibit, Leaving Your Mark: Stories in Wood, through the eyes of the artist himself. Claes will lead you on an exploration of his craft and share stories about the pieces highlighted in the exhibition. Two tours available. $20 ($15 ASI member)

Discover the Golden Mile: Neighborhood Walking Tours

In-Person | Offered the second and fourth Thursdays, June 8–September 28, 6–7 pm

Explore the area of Minneapolis once known as The Golden Mile on this guided walking tour of the blocks surrounding ASI. Discover the architecture, stories, and cultures of the neighborhood, past and present, and learn how this vibrant neighborhood has changed over time. $15 ($10 ASI member)

Group Tours

In-Person | Tue, May 2–Thu, August 31, 10 am or 1 pm Explore ASI’s exhibitions and the Turnblad Mansion during tours led by ASI educators. With exclusive access to ASI content experts, these tours offer an up-close and unique experience for groups. One-hour tours are available to book Tuesdays through Fridays at 10 am or 1 pm. $20 per person for groups of 10–30 people. Includes museum admission.

Turnblad Mansion Tour

In-Person | Wed, May 3–Thu, August 31, 1:30–2:30 pm Tours are offered Wednesday-Sunday. Discover the history of the Turnblad Mansion and Turnblad Family on a dynamic guided tour led by ASI educators. Register in advance to secure your space. Walk-up registration may also be available but will be limited based on the number of advanced registrations. Included with museum admission.