In Nørrestogo Skigard in Valdres, Norway, Thomas Aslaksby teaches in traditional skimaking.
The skis are made of birch, using axes, knives and planes.
In traditional cultures, the skill of making skis are essential to survive.
In our day, it´s a way of connecting to our cultural history, and keeping this ancient knowledge from disappearing.
Each pair of skis are made to have the properties you want, like extra wide for downhill skiing in loose snow, or lighter and narrower, for cross country terrain use.
Last winter I participated in Aslaksby's ski making class, and documented this great place and experience. This winter I've had the pleasure of putting the skis to use in Saltfjellet, Nordland. I hope you enjoy the video!
Music:
Pernille Meidell, "Dingo".
soundcloud.com/meidell
Visit my website: siljeensby.com
The skimaker/workshop holder:
facebook.com/NorrestogoSkigard
for norwegian version: vimeo.com/122012137
