The directory «Plots»

Aukrust Kjell (1920—2002)
Gurin with the Foxtail

Aukrust, was a national institution as a writer, humorist and artist, and he created a magical, rustic world that captured part of the essence of Norway's soul, and charmed generations of fans.

Born in Alvdal, Hedmark, Aukrust's decision to turn his back on farming in favor of the graphical arts was a drastic break with tradition. His close contact with country life would help him create and populate the fantastic town of Flåklypa.

Flåklypa first came to attention via a book of cuttings from the local 'newspaper', The Flåklypa Times, with its amazing collection of eccentrics and quirky local stories.

This imaginary and hilarious village and its cast of characters was the setting of Norway's most popular film, the puppet animation classic The Pinchcliffe Grand Prix (Flåklypa Grand Prix ), which has been seen by over 5.5 million Norwegians and distributed internationally.

Aukrust's star characters, brash blackbird Solan Gundersen and neurotically nervous porcupine Ludvig, also featured in Norway's first feature-length cartoon film, Gurin with the Foxtail (Gurin med reverompa). Released in 1998, it was the second most popular film of that year, only topped at the box office by Titanic.

Aukrust was honored by a special culture center devoted to his work in his hometown of Alvdal. He also received a knighthood — The Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav — bestowed upon him by King Harald in 1998.

Aukrust told Aftenposten then that he refused to believe the news when told, telling the caller "I won't fall for that, I've been fooled before!" Only speaking with the palace managed to convince the beloved humorist that the honor was genuine.

Norway, 1988, Ludvig

Norway, 1988, Ludvig