The Culture of Sweden is similar to but distinct from the cultures of neighboring countries and is characterised by its art, music, dance, literature, traditions, religious practices and more. Sweden's modern history has a well-established tradition of science, technology and cultural creativity. Swedes have made significant contributions to biology and chemistry, as well as cinema, art, music and literature. The Nobel laureates for physics, chemistry, medicine and literature are chosen by Swedish academies.
Dalecarlian horse in Avesta
Silver coin minted at Sigtuna for a Swedish king around the year 1000
Poster for The Seventh Seal
Self-portrait by Anders Zorn in 1915
Bäckadräkten is Sweden's first unisex folk costume, designed in 2022 by musician Fredy Clue and textile designer Ida Björs. The design merges elements that are traditionally considered either male or female, like the vest that is also a bodice and the culottes that present as a skirt. Bäcka means 'stream', referring to the primary theme of flowing water present throughout the outfit. It otherwise borrows heavily from older folk costumes representing regions throughout Sweden. Clue said Bäckadräkten is intended to invite wider participation in Swedish folk traditions by providing an outfit that is not restricted to any specific gender or geographic area.
Creator Fredy Clue wearing Bäckadräkten and holding a nyckelharpa
Swedish folk costumes from a 1908 encyclopedia
Fredy Clue and Ida Björs [sv] designing Bäckadräkten in 2022
Creator Fredy Clue wearing and lecturing about Bäckadräkten in 2022