Johannes - the Lofoten fisherman

Johannes represents generations of fishermen whose lives were shaped by the Arctic sea.

For centuries, life in Lofoten depended on fishing. Every winter, fishermen travelled to the islands to take part in the great cod fisheries, following the migrating Arctic cod known as skrei.

The fish fed families, built communities, and became the foundation of life along the northern coast. Stockfish from Lofoten was exported to the world for generations.

Fishermen worked in open boats surrounded by cold water, strong winds, and unpredictable weather. The days were long, the work was heavy, and the sea could be dangerous.
Not everyone returned home.

Part of the Lofoten Stories Collection
Handmade by Trine Lise Halmøy