Ethel Kvalheim was the key link in the American revival of the art form of rosemaling and the premier senior rosemaler in the United States. In addition to learning from Per Lysne, she took care to observe and learn from the many examples of old-world rosemaling in her neighbors' homes. The king of Norway granted Kvalheim the Medal of St. Olaf in recognition of her artistry. She received the Vesterheim Museum and National Rosemaling Association's first Gold Medal Award in 1969.