Both of these wonderful people create thoroughly modern works of literature and music that show great respect for and understanding of the complicated issues in the original Norse myths. I am very proud to announce the judges for the art contest. You can also check out the winners of the Midsummer 2013 Art Contest in the three categories: kid, teen and adult. If you need some ideas about Norse mythology, browse The Norse Mythology Blog Archive. What traditions can you discover? Can you think of a way to tie these traditions to the Norse myths? I strongly suggest doing some reading and research on midsummer celebrations in Northern Europe before you start working on your artwork. Will you draw elves feasting in the forest under the summer sun? Thor lighting the Midsummer bonfire with lightning? Freya taking her cats to the beach for a picnic? It’s up to you! Your goal with your original piece of visual art is to capture the spirit of both midsummer and Norse mythology.

Some of these practices preserve very old rituals. Throughout Northern Europe, there are local traditions that celebrate midsummer. The Main Midsummer Eve Bonfire (1915) by Nikolai Astrup From this point onwards, the days will start getting shorter as we slowly move back towards winter. This may seem pretty early in the season, but it’s really the middle. During the summer solstice on June 21, those of us living in the northern hemisphere will experience the longest day and shortest night of the year. The theme for The Norse Mythology Blog's third art contest is midsummer.

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