Introduction
Iceland, today’s destination, has always been famous for unique landscapes, interesting history and stunning capital – Reykjavik. This Nordic city is surrounded by stunning scenery including volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal pools and hot springs and the general atmosphere that resonates and throbs with an artistic and cultural dynamism on every street corner, in every gallery and museum. The most central point of the art culture in Reykjavik is the Reykjavik Art Museum; this is a fascinating museum that incorporates the best of the artistic history of Iceland with the best of the modern art scene.
Even though the Reykjavik Art Museum is known as one museum, it is, in fact, a network of three different locations that are quite different in the essence and content. Hafnarhús, which was a warehouse for harbor, includes the works of the most modern ist period art. Kjarvalsstaðir also they named a gallery, which is located in a park, is devoted to the outstanding painter of iceberg landscapes, Jóhannes S. Kjarval. Sculptor’s own Ásmundarsafn designed by Ásmundur Sveinsson himself accommodates the collection of works of the founder of the modern Icelandic sculpture. All in all, these three places form an interesting journey from old Icelandic art to todays calling for audacity art.
Exploring the Reykjavik Art Museum’s Three Locations
This art museum is divided into 3 stations each of which provides an exciting experience different from the other stations. Every one of the rooms has its own ambiance, structure, and thematic concentration so that it represents different views on Iceland and world’s art. Let’s take a closer look at each location:
Hafnarhús: A Hub of Contemporary Art
The building in which Hafnarhús is situated is a former harbor warehouse in the centre of Reykjavik old harbor district whose name, Hafnarhús, translated from the Icelandic means — Harbor House. This striking building with its sleek design and large unencumbered exhibit area is ideally suited for the museums more contemporary pieces.
A Modern Transformation: Founded in the 1930s the Hafnarhús was renovated in 2000 in a way that makes its a very modern art museum. The industrial character is expressed when most of the walls are made of exposed concrete and the ceiling is high, of course adding to the element of dynamism. As a result, very big windows open prospects to the harbor and the cityscape, therefore, more relating the art inside to the alive city.
Artistic Highlights: Modern art and works of Iceland artists are also displayed freed rotating exhibitions displayed at Hafnarhús. Another outstanding collection of the museum is the Erró’s works – the Icelandic pop artist famous for the collages in his paintings. The work of Erró mostly paints political and social themes, and has the ability to force the viewer to rethink the world.
Engaging with the Present: Hafnarhús is a very busy building that regularly changes its appearances with the new exhibitions and various events. Please visit our website to see the current and upcoming exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks that the museum can offer.
Kjarvalsstaðir: In Honor of Iceland’s Favorite Landscape Artist
Kjarvalsstaðir is a quiet and serene place in honor of the great Icelandic art Jóhannes S. Kjarval who is well known for painting. Located inside Klambratún Park, this large, beautiful structure is a perfect place for others to relax and appreciate the beautiful features and creative outlook of Kjarval.
Kjarval’s Legacy: Jóhannes S. Kjarval adorns the list of the most significant and favourite artists of Iceland. His paintings are the mimic of Iceland in its crude mountains, glacier, mystical skies and ‘badlav’ (volcanic fields). Justification of his paintings by the means of the expressionist and surrealist esthetic Kjarval was created the mysterious and wandering atmosphere in the pieces of landscapes.
A Harmonious Setting: Kjarvalsstaðir is an art itself. The basic design of the space was conceptualized by architect Hannes Kr. The building presented a neat and sleek structure devoid of much ornamentation to fulfill and fortify the extraordinary beauty of the location as described by Davíðsson. There are enormous windows which have views of the park; thereby it is sometimes difficult to distinguish where the art inside ends, and the nature outside begins.
Beyond Kjarval: Although this gallery has mainly works of Kjarval, temporary exhibitions of other artists, Icelandic and foreigners, are also displayed in Kjarvalsstaðir. These exhibitions generally focus on such subjects as the landscape, nature, and environment and are therefore comparative shows between Kjarval’s work and modern art.
Ásmundarsafn: A Sculptural Oasis
The Ásmundarsafn is a museum exclusively of the works of Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982), an early exponent of modern sculpture in Iceland. This one of a kind museum was also contributed by the artist Sveinsson and is considered an art piece in its own right. Ásmundarsafn art museum and sculpture is situated in Laugardalur valley and it merging art, architecture and nature.
A Building as Sculpture: The facility, the building itself, has curved walls and a domed ceiling, the many details that together represent Sveinsson’s artistry. It becomes imposing and adequately blended with the surrounding environment in a way that allows a free-flowing transition between the inside and outside environments.
The Sculpture Garden: Another important attraction of Ásmundarsafn is a sculpture park located immediately outside of the museum. Here, one can freely stroll through a number of Sveinsson’s monumental sculptures, so that the viewer is able to meditate on these works in a nontechnical world and feel the strength and grace of these mighty images.
Collections and Exhibitions at the Reykjavik Art Museum
RAM constitutes a rather amazing collection of Icelandic and foreign works of art, ranging from the earlier periods to contemporary art. The museum’s collection encompasses ancient oil paintings, photography, sculptures, installations, and pieces of contemporary artists, as well as traditional art created in Iceland during the past few centuries.
A Rich Tapestry of Icelandic Art: The art pieces that are found in this museum give the history of the Iceland art by trying to find out the different styles that are present in the country’s work. Visitors can explore works by renowned Icelandic artists like:
- Þórarinn B. Þorláksson: Iceland’s leading abstract artist of the post-World War II period characterized by his boldly colored expressive paintings.
- Nína Tryggvadóttir: A well–known Icelandic surrealist artist whose paintings are focused in nature, mythology and the hidden human mind.
- Louisa Matthíasdóttir: Saelia, an Iceland born and bred America raised artist recognized for her daring color palette and portrayal of IC eland’s nature and traditions.
International Influences: The works of art by local Icelandic artists also displayed at the museum encompass a representation of the global art environment Has the museum focused on artists from Iceland and its territories only or has there been variety represented by other artists from the rest of the world? The museum’s collection includes pieces by notable figures such as:
- Pablo Picasso: Featuring a choice of prints and ceramics of one of the most famous contemporary Spanish artists.
- Andy Warhol: Some of the famous work by the popular American artist who belongs to pop art movement.
- Richard Serra: Some of the sculptures are by the Hollywood minimalist artist.
Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions: The Reykjavik Museum of Art includes permanent and temporary ones. Within these areas there are permanent exhibitions and to get a broader look at this particular artist one can visit Kjarvalsstaðir and view the Kjarval collection. Temporary exhibitions are also more diverse and each time giving a different point of view on contemporary art, new artists, trends or ideas.
Exploring Current Exhibitions: The new exhibitions can always be found on the website of the Reykjavik Art Museum. Within current and future exhibitions, the website offers exhibition dates, the artists that are involved, and other related events.
Planning Your Visit to the Reykjavik Art Museum
Ready to immerse yourself in the world of art at the Reykjavik Art Museum? Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit and make the most of your experience:
Opening Hours and Admission
The Reykjavik Art Museum’s three locations have varying opening hours, so it’s important to check the schedule before your visit.
| Location | Opening Hours |
| Hafnarhús | Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 Thursday: 10:00 – 20:00 Monday: Closed |
| Kjarvalsstaðir | Daily: 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Ásmundarsafn | Daily: 10:00 – 17:00 |
Admission Fees:
- Adults: 2000 ISK (approximately $15 USD)
- Seniors (67+): 1000 ISK (approximately $7.50 USD)
- Students: 1000 ISK (approximately $7.50 USD)
- Children (18 and under): Free
Free Admission: Admission to all Reykjavik Art Museum locations is free on Wednesdays.
Reykjavik City Card: If you plan to explore other attractions in Reykjavik, consider purchasing the Reykjavik City Card. This card provides free entry to the Reykjavik Art Museum, along with other museums, swimming pools, and public transportation.
Getting There
Hafnarhús:
- Address: Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík
- By Bus: Several bus routes stop near Hafnarhús. Check the Strætó website (www.straeto.is) for routes and schedules.
- By Car: Limited street parking is available in the area.
- Walking: Hafnarhús is within walking distance from the city center.
Kjarvalsstaðir:
- Address: Flókagata, 105 Reykjavík
- By Bus: Bus routes 1, 3, 6, and 11 stop near Klambratún Park.
- By Car: Parking is available at Klambratún Park.
- Walking: Kjarvalsstaðir is a pleasant walk from the city center through Klambratún Park.
Ásmundarsafn:
- Address: Sigtún, 105 Reykjavík
- By Bus: Bus routes 1, 3, and 6 stop near Ásmundarsafn.
- By Car: Parking is available at the museum.
Accessibility
The Reykjavik Art Museum strives to be accessible to all visitors.
- Wheelchair Access: All three museum locations are wheelchair accessible.
- Elevators: Elevators are available at all locations.
- Accessible Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available at all locations.
- Assistance Animals: Assistance animals are welcome.
For specific accessibility inquiries, contact the museum in advance.
Tips for Your Visit
- Allow Ample Time: Each museum location offers a unique experience, so allow enough time to explore each one thoroughly.
- Check the Website: Visit the Reykjavik Art Museum website (www.artmuseum.is) for the latest information on exhibitions, events, and opening hours.
- Join a Guided Tour: Consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the art and artists.
- Relax and Enjoy: Take your time, immerse yourself in the art, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of each location.
Why You Should Visit the Reykjavik Art Museum
But those who are keen on art, culture and simply the spirit of Icelandic creativity, the Reykjavik Art Museum remains a must-visit. Here’s why:
- A Unique Blend of Modern and Traditional: The museum presents itself as a masterpiece of contrast between the local contemporary art and Icelandic art in their historical aspect. This both let you follow the threads of continuity throughout Icelandic art but feel the pulse of today’s scene at the same time.
- A Showcase of Icelandic Art and Culture: This museum presents an introduction to the art of Iceland and includes pieces by some of the best known artists from the country. You will learn about the background of Icelandic culture and the points of view which formed the artistic scene in the country.
- Diverse Artistic Styles and Perspectives: The Reykjavik Art Museum encompasses a vast variety of artistic views and techniques including landscape paintings and sculptures, photography, and installation art. This variety tends change a little from time to time thus guaranteeing something for everyone with an interested in artwork.
- Three Unique Locations: All the museum’s branches are arranged differently: the Hafnarhús, which is located in the industrial part of the city, Kjarvalsstaðir situated in a park, and Ásmundarsafn, with its sculptural design. Cross visiting all three locations offers a diverse and an overall experience to offer.
- Engaging Exhibitions and Events: The museum also has a rich calendar of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and events so that you will always meet something to surprise you. It is possible to watch the performance of modern artists, study the” behind the scene”, and sometimes even get acquainted with the performers.
The Reykjavik Art Museum: That is why the exhibition Where Modern and Traditional Collide is not only an allegory for a unique narration of artworks; it is a narration of the naïve, yet creative genius of Iceland. The world is going crazy because art is amazing, it may inspire, challenge, and even transform people. Whether you are an enthusiast of art or just interested in more unfamiliar tradition of Iceland it would be wise to visit the Reykjavik Art Museum which is definitely worth it.
Conclusion
Reykjavik Art Museum After decades of slow economic growth Iceland has seen a growing art scene more so because the Reykjavik Art Museum exhibits Icelandic art and culture through its historic and contemporary collections. Beginning with the contemporary art gallery of Hafnarhús, to the natural beauty of Kjarvalsstaðir to studying sculptures at Ásmundarsafn, each place a treat to the senses.
You will also have a perfect understanding of the museum’s numerous pieces and shows and thus develop an appreciation for how the Icelandic art has developed from the traditional styles to the contemporary styles. Here you will be able to see the creation of such famous Icelandic artists as Jóhannes S. Kjarval, Ásmundur Sveinsson, Erró as well as foreign artists that influenced Icelandic art.
Whether one is impressed by works of modern art or fascinated by pieces of traditional nature loving Iceland and the gorgeous landscapes, the Reykjavik Art Museum has something to attract anybody’s attention. Therefore, walk in and plan your trip and get enchanted by the brilliance of art that Icelandic nation can offer through the ICA.
References
- Official website of the Reykjavik Art Museum: www.artmuseum.is
- Guide to Iceland: www.guidetoiceland.is
- Visit Reykjavik: www.visitreykjavik.is
- The Culture Trip: theculturetrip.com
