Sámi artist Britta Marakatt-Labba has become one of Sweden’s most internationally recognized artists. Her medium is fabric her instruments are a needle and thread. Through these tools the the history, struggles and culture of the Sami people come to life. Today their struggle is their greatest yet.
Britta says “I was born into a struggle…because in Sámi culture, we’ve always had to fight – against religious oppression, against the abuses of the state and authorities, against incursions on our territory, our faith and our culture. And now we have another fight we need to take, against climate change. And if we don’t win that one, it will be our last.”
A powerful message.
Historjá: Stitches for Sápmi beautifully blends the story of Britta and the Sámi people with her representation of the Sami experience in her astonishing embroidered artwork with beautifully shot vistas of the striking landscapes. Her enormous work Historja, 2003–07, embroidery, print, appliqué, and wool on linen made a huge cultural impact when it was shown at Documenta 14 in Kassel in Germany. Britta Marakatt-Labba is also part of the Swedish delegation at this year’s Biennale de Venezia. Directed by Thomas Jackson, 59' & 87' 2022. B Reel Films www b-reelfilms.com