Duodji, the long and rich tradition of handcrafting is an intrinsic part of the Sámi’ lifestyle. Design and form rest on generations of experience, well expressed in a range of objects for practical use as well as beauty and decoration. Knives, cups, drums, jewellery, table cloths and colourful clothing are examples of Sámi workmanship. Typically, natural materials are used, like wood, horn and pelt. The iconic Sámi bracelet is made from a base of leather with an outer layer of braided pewter threads in classical patterns.

For young Sámi girl Mila, the bracelet is her only link to the world she once belonged to—a token of a rapidly diminishing existence. At the temple, tall walls pen her in, bullies lurk in the shadows and hawk-eyed masters threaten to break her. Will she be able to hold on to her last morsel of identity?

“In spite of everything it is still in there - that diminished part of me whose only outer proof is my Sámi bracelet, still sitting on the chair in my room.”

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Sámi Handicraft

“In spite of everything it is still in there - that diminished part of me whose only outer proof is my Sámi bracelet, still sitting on the chair in my room.”