From Sápmi to the global stage: A new era for Sámi art
With the launch of NANU – Sámi Arts International, a historic milestone has been reached for Sámi art. The new export and agency office is established by Dáiddadállu and Riddu Riđđu Festival, and will promote Sámi art internationally through a Sámi-led platform for visibility, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Sámi artists often face significant challenges when entering international arenas where knowledge of Sámi art and culture is limited. The encounter with large institutions and the commercial art market can feel both isolating and disorienting.
Through NANU, Sámi artists will have access to a professional infrastructure that supports their international ambitions. The goal is for Sámi artists themselves to define the terms of how their work is presented and circulated globally.
«For generations, Sámi artists have carved out their own path as creators. They have worked hard to make their work visible, but the lack of resources, infrastructure, and support systems has made the road to international markets very long.»
Sámi art needs a Sámi-led international platform
For generations, Sámi artists have carved out the right to practice their art on their own terms. They have worked tirelessly to make their work visible, often without the resources, infrastructure, or frameworks needed to access international markets. Over many years, Dáiddadállu and Riddu Riđđu have built strong platforms for Sámi art and culture. Together, they now take a historic step with the establishment of NANU – Sámi Arts International, an export and agency office that gives Sámi artists a clear and independent voice on the international stage. This initiative is not just about responding to growing global interest in Sámi art — it’s about protecting and empowering Sámi artists, building the infrastructure required for international activity, and ensuring that value creation and expertise stay within Sápmi.
«With NANU, we are creating a professional platform that centres Sámi perspectives, gives artists sustainable working conditions, and fosters the kind of knowledge needed for Sámi art to grow and have influence internationally. This is a direct response to the needs that artists and institutions in the Sámi art field have been voicing for years. Now the art is being given the security and structure it needs to grow — on its own terms.»
Launch in London – October 16
The launch of NANU will be celebrated with a Sámi take-over of the Corner Bar at Tate Modern in London on 16 October, featuring live performances by prominent Sámi artists Ella Marie Hætta Isaksen, Mari Boine, and Niilas.
Interest in Sámi art is steadily growing, and the historic presentation of Máret Ánne Sara’s work in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall amplifies this momentum. Sara is the first Indigenous artist ever — and the first artist from Norway — to be featured in Turbine Hall, arguably one of the world’s most iconic and prestigious exhibition spaces.
The launch of NANU – Sámi Arts International coincides with Sara’s solo exhibition at Tate Modern. This makes the occasion a historic moment for Sámi and Indigenous art globally — and that is precisely why we are here in London, one of the world’s cultural capitals.
Tate Modern, London
Photo: Unsplash
A strong Sámi logo
NANU – Sámi Arts International has a visual identity that reflects the strength and clarity of the work ahead. The word “nanu” or “nanus” in Northern Sámi means “strong” and “solid,” and the pattern elements reflect traditional Sámi design language.
The logo was designed by CJ Utsi and Josefin Öberg.
Riddu Riđđu and Dáiddadállu wish to extend their sincere thanks to the Sámi Parliament Norway and the Norwegian Ministry of Culture and Equality for their support in establishing NANU – Sámi Arts International.
