Nils Olav Mevatne

Saviour of Souls
– A portrait of and a tribute to the Norwegian spael sheep and wild sheep –

As a robust and rough-haired primeval force it stands there, scrutinising us. Not afraid, but watchful and alert, as life and history has taught it to be. It does not give anything for free, the Norwegian spael sheep and wild sheep, nor does it seek contact needlessly. You have to earn its trust.

In return, it has given us everything: meat and milk, drinking horns, bowstrings, fishing nets, sails for the Viking ships that ploughed the waves from Vinland to Miklagard, everyday and festive clothes, safety and warmth to endure the autumn storms and the freezing cold winters. If you meet its gaze, you may glimpse the debt of history. This is our faithful companion throughout the centuries.
This is the saviour of souls.

The book follow eight herds of traditional sheep and their farmers in the rugged and wild nature in the West Coast of Norway over a period of three years (2015 - 2018). They have cultivated the landscape for more than 4500 years, and continue to do so today.

Saviour of Souls is also a heartfelt thanks to the enthusiasts among the farmers. The sheep farmers are front line fighters in the voluntary protection of cultural heritage, and have spent countless hours preserving values that otherwise risk being lost forever.