Emil Karlsen is Riddu Riđđu's young artist in 2019. Emil is 21 years old, Seasami and raised in Omasvuona suohkan (Storfjord municipality). Ever since he was little, art in all forms has been an important part of his life.

Like so many other seasamis, Emil and his family have regained their Sami heritage and identity. His grandparents inspired him early in life, and this has resulted in him having Sami as a second language and that the Sami is rooted in what he does.

Emil likes to draw and as early as 9 years old he wrote his first song. He has had several band projects, currently with “Resirkulert” who played at the Riddu Riđđu festival last summer. In recent years, he has also made music for several theater performances.

As the Young Artist of the Year, Emil wants to make Sami music and explore film as an art form. This year's young artist will be duly presented at this year's festival.