Programme of the week
The National Gallery
Wrapping Paper as Art - Art as Wrapping Paper
There is something extraordinary about wrapping gifts with beautiful art. The National Gallery of Iceland and Litróf Printing recently joined forces, resulting in a festive collection of wrapping paper featuring the artworks of Sölvi Helgason.
Sölvi, often known as Sólon Íslandus, was a remarkable artist, eccentric, and charmer who took unconventional paths in life. His creations are characterized by vibrant floral patterns, and the National Gallery of Iceland’s collection holds timeless works by him that have now found their way onto unique wrapping paper.
On Sunday, December 1, a splendid launch event was held at the National Gallery of Iceland to showcase the wrapping paper collection, which delighted attendees. The wrapping paper is available at the museum shop of the National Gallery of Iceland and through Litróf Printing.
Unwrap treasures of Icelandic Art at the National Gallery Museum Store
Jewelry by Finnur Jónsson
The Icelandic artist and goldsmith Finnur Jónsson (1892–1993) made significant contributions to Icelandic art history in the 20th century. He was the first Icelandic artist to exhibit abstract works, both abroad and in Iceland, but he also adopted an expressionistic and narrative style, becoming known for his paintings of Icelandic landscapes and fishermen at sea. He was a leading figure among Icelandic artists, advocating for their rights and better working conditions.
On the occasion of the centennial of the National Gallery of Iceland, Finnur and his wife, Guðný Elísdóttir, donated over 800 of Finnur’s works to the museum. This significant gift included among others silver pieces, as well as tools and wood and metal casting moulds for gold and silver smithing.
Among the silver pieces a pendant in the form of a fisherman rowing a boat.
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Icelandic Goldsmiths’ Association in 2024, the National Gallery of Iceland commissioned the silversmith Óttar Gauti Guðmundsson to reproduce these works as exquisite jewellery, celebrating Icelandic cultural heritage and art history.
Art Workshop 2025
Registration Now Open!
Do you know a creative child bursting with imagination? The National Gallery of Iceland invites children aged 7 to 12 to join our inspiring and hands-on art workshops, held at the Workshop in the museum on Fríkirkjuvegur.
These workshops encourage young artists to explore and engage with the museum's exhibitions. Participants will study the artworks on display, honing their skills in color and form perception while experimenting with a wide range of materials. They’ll create in diverse mediums such as painting and sculpture, fostering their creativity and confidence.
At the end of the workshop, a special exhibition will showcase their masterpieces, inviting family and friends to celebrate their achievements.
The workshops are led by Marta María Jónsdóttir, an accomplished artist and museum educator, ensuring a rich and rewarding experience for all participants.
Practical Information:
- Children should wear clothing suitable for painting, splashing, and creative fun!
- Recreational grants can be applied to cover the workshop fee.
Sign your young artist up today for an unforgettable creative journey!
Registration: Frirvk Listasafn Íslands | Shop | Abler
The House of Collections
09.12.2024 II 3-5pm
Conference
Visual Arts Policy
The Ministry of Culture and the Center for Visual Arts invite you to a conference at Safnahúsið on Hverfisgata to evaluate the progress of initiatives outlined in Iceland’s visual arts policy.
Keynote Speaker:
Mikkel Bogh, professor at the University of Copenhagen, former director of the National Gallery of Denmark, and past rector of the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. Bogh also served as an international expert in the preparation of a report on the status of the National Gallery of Iceland, one of the 18 initiatives in the visual arts policy.
About the Policy:
Launched last year and running through 2030, the visual arts policy includes 18 targeted actions. The conference will provide an update on the progress made: some initiatives are complete, others are ongoing, and all will be reviewed in detail.
Open to All:
Whether you are an artist, a cultural professional, or simply an art enthusiast, join us for this important conversation on the future of visual arts in Iceland.
We look forward to seeing you!
More: Ráðstefna: Staða myndlistarstefnunnar
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