Art of Iceland
The visual arts of Iceland are renowned for their innovation, creativity, and strength. Come explore the passion behind the expression.
Iceland's vibrant art scene has made headlines around the world for its edgy, all-encompassing displays and its regular introduction of bold new artists.
On stage or on canvas, Icelandic society values the fine arts so highly that they are constantly available to everyone, everywhere. An easy stroll walk around the capital takes you past dozens of cool galleries, as well as the pensive architecture of Guðjón Samúelsson, the color-drenched paintings of Jóhannes Kjarval and the bold sculptures of Einar Jónsson.
Museums
Reykjavík is home to at least a half dozen different art museums—an amazing number given the relatively small size of the capital. Iceland's other city Akureyri is another small town with a big art scene and its very own art festival. As a country, Iceland's diverse art collection attracts the attention of art lovers around the world. There's plenty to keep insatiable connoisseurs well-occupied:
- Listasafn Íslands/National Gallery of Iceland
- Einar Jónsson Museum
- Living Art Museum, Reykjavík
- Reykjavík Art Museum/ Kjarvalsstadir
- Reykjavík Art Museum/ Ásmundur Sveinsson Sculpture Museum
- Reykjavík Art Museum/ Harbour House
- Reykjavík Museum of Photography
- Akureyri Municipal Art Museum
Festivals
Icelanders gather throughout the year to celebrate art in all of its forms. Don't miss the chance to see creativity in action:
Dance & Theater
Iceland's dramatic arts are active throughout the year. Performances are available in Icelandic (and sometimes English) and include European stage classics along with the work of Iceland's own avant-garde playwrights.
Film
For its otherworldly landscapes and dramatic views, Iceland has become a favored location for major motion picture film shoots. We've helped turn out Hollywood blockbusters along with a broad scope of independent films made by Icelanders in Iceland. Our film industry may be small but it has attracted a devoted following around the world. Some of these films are currenlty featured in the 2009 Icelandic Film Retrospective—a special film festival held in New York City. For more information about Icelandic cinema, check out our National Film Archives.
