In celebration of the launch of the EOE Eyewear Antler Collection, local artisan Ulf Avander has crafted exquisite hand-carved details for the upcoming models, Saadek Horn and Dearna Horn. We had the opportunity to talk with Avander to discuss his journey and the unique significance of this collaboration.
Hailing from Skellefteå, Ulf Avander has mastered the traditional handicraft of Sweden’s North, working closely with the indigenous community to preserve and promote the local legacy. With over 50 years of experience in antler carving, Avander's artistry has evolved since he first began in the 1970s.
“My parents greatly influenced my life with their passion for the mountains and local fishing,” Avander shares. “As an adult, I was fortunate to spend extended periods working in the mountains of Arjeplog.”
Avander's journey into craftsmanship began during his military training in Boden, where he was introduced to the art by a local Sámi artisan. This encounter led him to create his first knife handle, sparking a lifelong passion. Since then, he has honed his skills, garnered numerous prestigious awards, and authored books on the subject that have been translated into multiple languages.
“Finding quality materials can be challenging. During my time in the mountains, I connected with a Sámi family that provides me with exceptional antlers, which they collect from the plains where reindeer naturally shed their antlers each year,” Avander explains. “This family has profoundly inspired my work, offering both materials and traditional carvings that have shaped my life and craft.”
Discover Ulf Avanders work here.
