#23
Ske.is
SKE Plans Your Perfect Day in Reykjavík
The Current Political Landscape
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27.04.2016 - 26.05.2016 R.I.P. PRINCE
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„A film is merely the eye of the director.“ – SKE speaks to Icelandic actress Aníta Briem about her new book, Werner Herzog and the reputation of Icelanders abroad
Ske
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A “Perfect” Day Pt. 23 There is no such thing as perfect. A thing cannot be perfect. But when a thing is sufficiently wonderful we may refer to it as perfect for the sake of emphasis – such a thing is customary. A few days ago, we experienced a day that was wonderful enough to predispose us towards exaggeration, and we are confident that if any traveler were to follow in our footsteps, then they too would feel the same. It was, in all honesty, a perfect day.
1.
Editorial The past few weeks have been difficult for me. I have suffered as no man before me has suffered; I have agonized like Christ on the cross; like a woman forcing triplets through an undersized pelvis (#creak). For days I have lain beneath the cruel Icelandic sky, languishing by the banks of an open grave, and weighing, silently, the merits of an untimely death. “If only they knew,” I have thought: “… knew how I’ve suffered.” But I have never been one for silent suffering. When I suffer, I would like the world to know – and I shamelessly solicit sympathy from anyone with two functioning ears. Listen, the reason why I have suffered is this: I am acutely allergic to politicians – and for the past few days there have been politicians everywhere: in the news, in the papers, on the internet, on my phone and, also – occasionally – standing in the windows of parliament, bearing faces that betray a sense of imminent danger (of democracy, perhaps). It has been dreadful, terrifying, agonizing – but that is not the sole wellspring of my pain: What I find most painful, most vexing, most troubling is the fact that the past few days have succeeded in transforming even my most naïve, innocent and genial friends into political commentators. Good people who have hitherto had the good sense of avoiding the mind-numbing dreariness of political discourse have begun to posture: They seem poised to stand the way politicians stand, with their arms extended diagonally towards the edges of their podiums; they seem likely to break wind with their mouths, to pollute the air with clouds of fetid verbiage; and when I look at them I discern a suggestion of suits, ties and rhetoric – along with that familiar, feigned shock of unblushing opportunism. It is horrifying. It is for this reason that I hope that we hold general elections soon and that we elect a band of invisible people to Parliament: people with no sex drives and no ambitions; people whose quiet intelligence has obliterated their ego; lower-middle class people who will neither upset the poor nor scandalize the rich; boring people who will not embarrass themselves in front of the foreign media – so that we can go back to ignoring politicians, and living our lives. For whenever the apolitical begin discussing politics, politicians are doing something wrong.
Ske Editors: ritstjorn@ske.is Advertisement: auglysingar@ske.is Editorial and Interview: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Interviewee: Aníta Briem Photographs (Cover & Interview): Allan Sigurðsson Printing: Ísafoldarprentsmiðja Layout: Helgi Pétur Lárusson Design: Gebo ehf.
Bókin ehf.
The Disease of Idiocy 10:00
In light of the recent political events in Iceland, we have decided to dedicate this “Perfect Day” segment of our magazine to what we consider to be the five pillars of a democratic society: wisdom, health, community, food – and beer. Let us proceed: No democratic society can be wholly functional if its citizens are ignorant. Ignorant voters will elect ignorant leaders, who will pass injudicious laws etc. The best medicine against the disease of idiocy is books … Located on the corner of Klapparstígur and Hverfisgata (in downtown Reykjavík), there is an old antique bookstore that goes by the name of Bókin ehf. (The Book Inc.). When last we visited, classical music wafted down from the ceiling speakers, being played on a vintage record player. The whole store seemed pervaded by a palpable feeling of calm wisdom. Most of the books are in Icelandic, but there is a beautiful “foreign literature” section near the entrance. Be wise, visit this store.
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World Class (Laugar)
Greek Statues 11:30
Any democratic society requires a body of healthful citizens. What good is a society if its citizens are enfeebled, weary or sick? Such a society is inherently vulnerable against the capricious exploitation of tyrants … If you are looking for a place to sculpt your body into an admirable Greek statue – then you could do worse than the World Class gym in Laugardalur. For the price of 2,100 ISK you can buy access to one of the most upto-date fitness centers in Iceland while gaining admission to the swimming pool as well: jog on the treadmill; lift some weights; swim a few laps; relax in the hot-pots; and on your way back to your hotel or apartment, invest a few ducats in a French hot-dog (come on: you’re on a vacation.)
3.
Reykjavík Roasters
Age of Enlightenment 14:00
It is said that coffeehouses played a significant role in the Age of Enlightenment. It was there that people of all classes convened and exchanged ideas, which in turn, produced new ideas – and a true citizen in any nation should be as open to new ideas as he is aware of the old. Also, a coffeehouse is a communal experience … For the finest coffee in Iceland, we entreat you to visit Reykjavík Roasters’ newest coffeehouse on Kárastígur (next to the Iceland Academy of the Arts). There you will be greeted by kind and obliging people who are passionate about good coffee. Order yourself a cappuccino, listen to the locals, breathe in the smell of coffee.
4. Slippbarinn
Gratinated Cheese 19:00 The ultimate goal of a democratic society is to produce great restaurants – and afford its citizens the means by which to visit said restaurants. After all, is there anything more enjoyable in life than sitting around a restaurant table with one’s friends, drinking wine, while a suave waiter serves you rare delicacies? … There are, of course, many great restaurants in Iceland. One of our favorites is Slippbarinn by the old harbor in downtown Reykjavík. Situated inside a waterfront hotel (Hotel Marina), Slippbarinn is an architectural conversation between the past and present: vinyl records produce classic tunes that dance among a decidedly contempary decor, while patrons are served innovative dishes as they look out towards the harbor (depending on your seat). We recommend the gratinated cheese, served with honey, pine nuts and bread. It’s a fairy tale disguised as a meal.
5. Prikið
The Myth of the Hangover 21:00 If the ultimate goal of a democratic society is the production of great restaurants, then affordable alcohol is a basic principle. We would not like to live in a society destitute of Happy Hour. Wasn’t it Jefferson who said that liberty is to be found in a stein of beer – and oppression in prohibition? … Anyhow, Prikið, a coffeehouse/diner during the day and a club during the night, is where young people (mostly) go to enjoy great Hip-Hop music (mostly). It is one of the oldest establishments in town and it rarely disappoints. We suggest liberating yourself from the tyranny of cerebral inhibition by way of alcohol and cutting loose on the dancefloor as if hangovers were an old Greek myth that no one really believes.
You’re in for a perfect day. The pictures relate indirectly to each segment: Sean Connery portrayed the bookish William Forrester in the movie Finding Forrester; Anthony Quinn played Zorba the Greek in the eponymous movie; Apparently, Miley Cyrus loves a nonfat white mocha; Gregory Peck played Captain Ahab in the Hollywood version of Moby Dick; and we love the Queen of Hip-Hop Lauryn Hill.
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Music
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ICELAND BY
Júníus Meyvant’s Neon Experience on Hype Machine Hype Machine is a music blog aggregator founded in 2005 and it is, undoubtedly, one of the most popular music sites on the web. In mid April, the official audio version of Júníus Meyvant's Neon Experience climbed to Hype Machine's number two spot. The song has been posted by numerous blogs, among which Indie Shuffle, in which the Icelandic singer is compared to Leon Bridges:
11 Songs Prince Wrote That Were Hits for Other Artists
“It's easy to hear why talented up-and-comer Júníus Meyvant won ‘Best Newcomer’ at the Icelandic Music Awards earlier this year. His latest single Neon Experience is a gorgeous retro-soul shaker with traces of joyful pop sensibilities that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. Although billed as an indie folk artist, Meyvant showcases his R&B side with Neon Experience. His husky vocals are superb, filling out the 6-minute soul infused production that I wish would never end. There's a bit of Music legend Prince passed away on April 21st. He was 57 years old. Leon Bridges and Aloe Blacc about Meyvant, with Neon Prince was born Prince Rogers Nelson in Minneapolis, Minnesota Experience a delightful introduction to the Icelandic on June 7th,1958. At 19, Prince became the youngest producer at crooner.” Warner Bros. with the release of his debut album For You (he played all the instruments himself). In 1984, Prince starred in the film Júníus Meyvant is currently working on his sophomore Purple Rain, which featured songs like Doves Cry, Purple Rain and album, Floating Harmonics, which is scheduled to be Let’s Go Crazy. He won a total of seven Grammy awards and was relased on July 8th. nominated 30 times. In his career, Prince released 34 albums and sold over 100 million records. Here are 11 songs that Prince wrote that were hits for other artists:
NUMBERS
2,3%
WAGE INCREASE FROM PREVIOUS QUARTER
1%
INCREASE IN ICELANDIC POPULATION (FROM JANUARY 2015 TO 2016)
4%
ECONOMIC GROWTH IN 2015
Sinead O’Connor – Nothing Compares to U
437,000
The Bangles – Manic Monday Madonna – Love Song Stevie Nicks – Stand Back Chaka Khan – I Feel For You
A Glimpse of Iceland in M.I.A.’s Newest Video
ESTIMATED NUMBER OF ICELANDERS IN 2065
3,1%
RATE IN ICELAND
Morris Day and the Time – Jungle Love
M.I.A. has been known to butt heads with large corporations, which is why it must have come as a surprise to many that her latest effort was produced in partnership with the Swedish fashion giant H&M. The song, entitled Rewear It, was premiered on Vogue’s website on April 10th and forms a part of H&M’s World Recycle Week campaign. The campaign aimed to raise awareness of global warming by collecting 1,000 tons of old clothes from customers in exchange for store credit.
Celine Dion – With This Tear
The video for the song sees the ever-so cool M.I.A. standing atop a pile of clothes, while dancers cut loose in different countries across the world – among which Iceland.
37%
Sheile E. – The Glamorous Life
Sheena Easton – Sugar Walls Martika – Love … Thy Will Be Done Alicia Keys – How Come You Don’t Call Me
For the occasion of the video’s premiere, M.I.A. answered questions for Vogue, wherein she stated that the video had been shot in many different locations: “I think it’s shot everywhere – Senegal, Iceland, America … It was pretty global. I was supposed to shoot my part in America, but I didn’t get the visa, so mine was shot back in Europe.” Whether or not the song will find its way to M.I.A.’s upcoming album, Matahdatah, which has been in the works for some time now, is unclear. But the song and video certainly are promising.
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Music
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CLASSIC SONGS Here are a few great songs by Icelandic artists to listen to during your stay
Upcoming Concerts in Iceland April and May will be predicably eventful as far as the Icelandic music scene goes. SKE picked out a few notable events that are well worth your time:
New Song and Video by Emmsjé Gauti A few days ago Icelandic rapper Emmsjé Gauti burrowed a hole into our brains. He burrowed a hole into our brains and then divulged a personal truth in the form of a rap lyric into said hole: “Djamma eins og ég eigi afmæli” (I party like it’s my birthday, in Icelandic, but more catchy). Since then that squatting tenant of rhythmic lyricism has refused to leave our brains and we have been unable to evict it – try as we may. All day long we’ve been silently reciting that line in our diseased heads. In order to heal ourselves, we tried the hair-of-the-dog-thatbit-you treatment: We contacted Emmsjé Gauti and asked him a few questions regarding the song, along with other more or less pertinent questions.
Retro Stefons – Kimba “Bass!”
What inspired the song? The Múlinn Jazz Club will be in session at the Harpa Music and Concert Hall on April 28th, May 4th and May 11th at 21:00 (Admission 2,000 ISK) A David Bowie Tribute Concert, featuring many of Iceland’s greatest singers, will be held at the Harpa Music and Concert Hall on April 29th at 19:30 (Admission 5,990 – 11,990 ISK) An Amy Winehouse Tribute Concert will be held at Gamla Bíó on Wednesday May 4th at 21:00 (Admission 4,900 ISK) The legendary Bryan Ferry will perform at Harpa on May 16th at 20:00 (Admission 8,990 – 16,990 ISK) The lovely Emiliana Torrini will perform at Harpa on May 19th and May 20th at 20:00 (Admission 4,900 – 8,900 ISK)
I wrote the lines “Mother would you take my temperature, ‘cause I’m so hot” after Strákarnir (a popular Gauti tune) took off. The rest of the lyric came as soon as I heard the beat, which is sick. What was the idea behind the video? The original idea was so extreme that it was nearly impossible to execute. I wanted to shoot a children’s birthday party as if it were this really dissolute party for adults: Kids taking pills of Smarties and tripping, throwing up and getting into fights. It was a good idea but it would have had to been perfectly executed in order for it to work. Otherwise, it just would have been really quite shabby. As a result, we decided to shoot two worlds, both of which feature a birthday party.
Jóhann G. Jóhannsson – Don’t Try To Fool Me „One of the true classics.”
When you say that you party like it’s your birthday, do you mean a milestone birthday? If so, what milestone are we talking about? Whenever I celebrate my birthday it’s a milestone birthday and I live life like every day’s my birthday. Were you pleased with the first episode of Rapp í Reykjavík (a new Icelandic documentary series on Icelandic rap)? No doubt. Of course I’ve only seen the first episode (which features Gauti), but I know that Dóri and Gaukur (the duo behind the show) have shot some great material. They’re shooting this series at the perfect time. The first episode was really quite good and I don’t doubt that the rest is equally good. Rapp í Reykjavík is the new Rokk í Reykjavík (a famous documentary on Icelandic rock music) except that the sound and the visuals are of a higher quality.
Dr. Dre Produces a Documentary about Anderson .Paak Beats by Dre, founded by legendary record producer Dr. Dre, has announced that it is working on a documentary about the newest member of the Aftermath family (Dre’s record label) – superproducer Anderson .Paak. It’s still unclear when the documentary will air but a short preview was released on the internet on April 25th. Anderson .Paak has stirred up quite the excitement among music fans and professionals alike; in a relatively short time, the 30-year old producer, singer and rapper from Onxard, California has become one of the most sought after producers in America (among both the younger and the older generation). Anderson .Paak’s latest album, Malibu, was released earlier this year to universal acclaim.
Gus Gus – Ladyshave “Sexy white boys.”
Did Bent (another Icelandic rapper) contact you regarding your makeup comment? (In the first episode of the documentary, Gauti admits that he sometimes applies a little concealer to his face, adding that he picked up the habit from Bent). No, not yet. I’m not too worried about it. How much do you deadlift / benchpress? (In the documentary, Gauti spends quite some time in the weight room.) I deadlift 170 kg and I bench 110 kg. I’m incredibly strong. I can rip a phone book in two.
Lay Low – By and By “Excellent folky pop.”
Out of all the Icelandic rappers, whose the most ripped (muscular)? I’m not sure. I think we need to hold a bench press competition. Which candidate do you support in the Icelandic presidential elections? Andri Snær is the most convincing, in my opinion. But I will scrutinize each candidate that steps forward. But today it’s ANDRI 4 PREZ. What’s the biggest danger facing mankind? Chemtrails and lizard people. Anything you’d like to add? Don’t let your democratic rights get trampled on; get out there and protest, even though it can be boring in the long run. This kind of nonsense will not be accepted – and oh, yes, my album Vagg&Velta will be released this summer!
Nýdönsk – Frelsið “An ode to freedom.”
8 mental picture amuses me. The book will be translated to English soon, she adds.)
Interview: Ragnar Tómas Interviewee: Aníta Briem Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson
SKE: It is generally considered bad form to begin a piece of literature by quoting someone – especially if that someone must first be dragged out of his grave by his toes before his brittle, bony jaw may begin to jabber. But I am a writer, and writers are clever miscreants, who understand that to acknowledge the egregiousness of the sin before committing it, is to purchase good will from the aggrieved (the readers). Therefore, forgive me: Oscar Wilde said “it is absurd to divide people into good and bad. People are either charming or tedious.“ Yesterday, this Wildean dichotomy ran through my head, for I – having spent most of my time in the company of tiresome windbags, with voices like buzzing insects, who failed to win over even their own mothers as infants – experienced a strange vulnerability against the persuasive charm of Icelandic actress Aníta Briem. In truth, I spent most of the interview trying not to regress into a fawning child ... We discussed her new book, Werner Herzog and the reputation of Icelanders abroad.
SKE: Did you ever think of going through a foreign publisher? Aníta: I wanted to write the book for Icelandic women because people do things differently in the States (Aníta lives in Hollywood with her husband Constantine Paraskevopoulos). I wanted the photographs to be taken here in Iceland. If anything, it will only make the book more appealing to a foreign readership. We shot the photographs in Kjós, at the old house of the artist Tolli. (I say that I once meditated with Tolli, adding that there is a palpable wisdom and serenity that seems to cling to his person.) Aníta: I stole his sweater for the photo-shoot. I felt very good wearing it and you’re right: There was a definite aura of wisdom and serenity. SKE: You’re starring in Werner Herzog’s new movie. How did that come about? Aníta: I got a call from my agent, who said that someone from Werner’s team had called and asked me to send them an audition. It’s a minor role, but I would do anything to work with him: I would wash his feet if he asked me to!
(At 6:30 on a Thursday evening, I leave the office and head in the direction of Ingólfsstræti. I make a right turn into the lobby of Center Hotel and take the elevator to the top floor (to Ský Bar). The doors open and I stroll along to the dining room. Within a bright, sunlit room, affording a rare panorama of Reykjavík’s harbor, Aníta Briem sits, wearing a white top and a black ribbon in her hair. I’d say that she looks like a Hollywood actress – if it weren’t true. We exchange pleasantries and she begins the conversation like all charming people begin conversations: by complimenting their interlocutor – telling me that an acquaintance of hers, whom I interviewed last year, had spoken favorably of me.)
(Aníta stares at me with a mysterious look.)
SKE: I adore him!
Aníta: I suppose ...
Aníta: He’s incredible. I watched some of his films again, along with those films I hadn’t seen. He’s also done so many interviews. It’s a treat to listen to him speak – to see the world through his eyes.
SKE: Any news on Kill the Poet? (Kill the Poet is an Icelandic film, caught in an apparent pre-production limbo, which is to star many notable Icelandic actors, Aníta included.)
SKE: Tell me about your new book.
Aníta: It’s still in the works. It’s probably not the first film that takes 10 years to make. (Aníta laughs. It’s a winning laugh, as infectious as a welcome plague. I smile. The waiter brings me a beer and we raise our glasses, say “cheers”.) Aníta: The script is really beautiful, revolving around the love affair of poet Steinn Steinarr and Louisa Matthíasdóttir. It’s a period piece, taking place in the ‘30s and it’s expensive to make those kinds of films; you need to line the streets with old cars. SKE: I walk past Unuhús (a former inn that provided cheap food and lodging for many famous Icelandic artists of the past) every day on my way to work. That era in Icelandic history is so fascinating ... Aníta: The film has a lot of fun elements, all these extraordinary people; this love story; this political landscape – the rise of Nazism and the impending Second World War. (I reveal my ignorance of Steinn and Louisa’s relationship. Aníta says that Louisa’s parents did not approve of the affair. To them, Steinn was little more than a ragged bum, destitute of all the qualities that an ideal son-in-law should possess. Originally, Steinn was to accompany Louisa to New York – but her parents prevented him from doing so.) Aníta: Don’t we all have that one person, that one love, which we think: “What if? What if life had taken a different turn?” (There is a slight pause, as both of us ponder the prospect. The writer in me seeks to exploit an opportunity.) SKE: … do you have that person?
(Then she laughs.) SKE: I already turned on the Dictaphone, you know ... (Aníta keeps laughing and I intimate that it was all a setup.)
SKE: He has such depth. I’m a fan of this podcast, Entitled Opinions, hosted by a professor of Italian literature at Stanford. It revolves mainly about literature and philosophy ...
Aníta: I like the way you led me into that ... (She feigns a cough and I change the subject.)
Aníta: The book was a fun project. It was never my intention to write a book, but during my pregnancy I was always nauseous and drained of energy and eating was a real chore. (Aníta gave birth to her first child, Mia, in January 2014. Her book Mömmubitar, Mom’s Bites, about nutrition and health during pregnancy was published in April.) Aníta: I was always looking for a book free of fear mongering: “If you eat this, your baby’s arm will fall off!” I became tired of that kind of thing and decided to write my own book. I enlisted the help of Solla (the owner of the Icelandic health-food franchise Gló). I also weave all kinds of personal anecdotes into the book. SKE: I didn’t know that, about the anecdotes, that is. That’s interesting. Aníta: I had envisioned the book – but it’s not a book about me. It’s a book for pregnant women. There are so many times during a woman’s pregnancy when she thinks: “I’m sure no one has experienced what I’m going through!” Just reading about someone else’s experience can put your mind at ease. SKE: I think that’s quite extraordinary; there aren’t many people who have an idea for a book and then later the book’s being published, with the help of Solla, no less … (I’m thinking of my own book, now, which I’ve been struggling with since 2012. I envy her drive. She says that she was fortunate to have good collaborators: Not once during the entire proccess did someone say to her, “Aníta, this is stupid!” She enjoyed a certain creative freedom and is happy that they managed to remain faithful to the original idea behind the book. Aníta then compliments Solla, saying that it’s quite rare going through such a lengthy creative process with someone without encountering any friction. Apparently, sunshine spilled out of Solla’s ears the entire time. The
(Aníta writes down the name and says that she’s going to listen to it. I blabber on about the podcast and tell Aníta that Werner Herzog was on the show a few weeks ago, discussing the Peregrine, a literary masterpiece released in 1967 that was almost forgotten. I say that listening to Werner speak about life and literature was really quite something.) Aníta: He says that before you can become a great filmmaker you must live! You must read everything and learn to work with your hands! You must learn a new language and live in different countries! It’s an incredibly beautiful philosophy. (Aníta’s face lights up, going from warm sunshine to a kind of subtle supernova.) Aníta: I went to the set of the movie in Munich. After we wrapped there was a little celebration at this tiny Italian restaurant, which we had all to ourselves. The owner, this lovely Italian lady, cooked us dinner. I sat next to Gael Garcia Bernal, who also stars in the film, along with Werner and his wife … SKE: What’s her name again? She’s a photographer, right? Aníta: I can’t remember. I can’t remember anything. I have mommy’s brain. SKE: I’m the same … Aníta: You don’t have mommy’s brain … (We laugh.) Aníta: I never know what day it is. I never know what month it is. SKE: Because of the pregnancy? Aníta: No, just because I don’t need to know – it doesn’t matter. Next week I’m doing this and then that. There’s no difference between weekdays and weekends. There’s no real order to my life. SKE: You were saying … Aníta: Yes, Werner was discussing Edward Snowden
„I don‘t care if I‘m made to suffer along the way – so long as the film is good.“
10 comparison; never before have I felt so good about my decidedly effeminate hands.) Aníta: It’s quite good for the male ego! (We laugh and I nod in agreement. Allan’s face betrays a sense of amused bewilderment.) SKE: What do you want to do in the future? Aníta: I’m always looking for great projects and I would like to find “my directors,” that’s my goal. It’s quite rare to find directors that are genuinely interested in diving beneath the surface of their female characters. SKE: Have you been following the Shakespearean drama that is Icelandic politics? One is always so interested in the reactions of Icelander who live abroad ...
and how he’d be regarded a hero in the future. It made me think, because in the US they keep telling us how he endangered the safety of the American people. (I experience a sudden flashback: Standing within an American classroom, right hand resting upon my heart, I solemnly pledge allegiance to the flag. I lived in the US for seven years.)
SKE: I heard that you wrote a score to a film recently, is that true? Aníta: Yes, I did the score for a little movie starring Dakota Johnson and Mira Sorvino. I’ve been composing music privately, as a different outlet for my creativity. Sometimes I’ll be waiting for my scene, sitting in the trailer, and I’ll play to kill time, or to help develop a character.
SKE: What was your experience on set like? SKE: What instrument do you use to compose? Aníta: I’m a big fan of directors who are determined. I sent Werner’s team an audition and a few days later – while I was bathing my daughter – I’m on my phone deleting emails. Just as I’m about to transfer an email into the trash, I notice the name of the sender: Werner Herzog. I was very surprised, you know, even though it’s a relatively small role and all that. The feeling that I experienced when I got the role was the same ecstasy that I experienced when I was nine years old and told that I had been hired for the role of Ida in Emil of Lönneberga at the National Theater. (Aníta laughs quite heartily.) Aníta: It was an honor. He has very strong opinions on all subjects. Every time people warn me about a director, saying things like “He’s a tyrant, a sadist, a dictator,” – my reaction is usually “Ooooh, this will be fun!” (We laugh.) Aníta: I don’t know what that says about me. When directors are very determined, that’s great news for me because it means that the director knows what he wants. A film is merely the eye of the director. If the director doesn’t have a strong vision then the film won’t amount to much. I don’t care if I’m made to suffer along the way – so long as the film is good. (We laugh. Aníta segues into the many epiphanies of maturation.) Aníta: When I was 18 I thought to myself: “This is the ways things are and I’ve got it all figured out!” Then when I was 24 I thought: “God was I wrong when I was 18 – this is the way things really are!” Then when I was 28 I thought: “I got it all wrong again! I should of kept all that nonsense that I was saying when I was 24 to myself.” And at that moment, when I was sitting there next to Werner at that Italian restaurant, I started thinking about this process and decided: “It’s probably best to keep my mouth shut – because I know that if I start talking I’m going to regret it two years later!”
Aníta: A guitar and sometimes a piano. I’ve been using Pro Tools lately. I’ve played the flute all of my life, the classical kind … (“As opposed to the jazz flute,” Aníta says mocking herself. She laughs.) SKE: Wagner played the classical flute ... (Aníta chuckles at my feeble attempt at comedy.) Aníta: Mike Figgis gave me my first guitar. I was doing a play at West End at the time. He scribbled down a few grips on a scrap of paper and told me to play. I inquired as to the song but he refused to tell me. And so I sat backstage at West End trying to produce the chords from his scribbling because I was so curious as to what song it was. (We laugh. Allan, our photographer, strolls in and Aníta offers him a seat.) SKE: And what was the song? Aníta: It was Georgia on My Mind. I struggled through it for the next three, four nights until I finally got it. I wanted to run home and celebrate! SKE: Did your father convince you to start playing the “classical” flute? (Aníta’s father, Gunnlaugur Briem, is a drummer, famous for his work with the Icelandic jazzfunk fusion band Mezzoforte.)
SKE: That’s a good point. I feel like the younger generation is, perhaps, a little more sensitive to moral issues, when compared to their predecessors. Aníta: Yes, I agree. SKE: Do you favor any particular Icelandic presidential candidate? Aníta: I haven’t delved into it, but I like Andri Snær. (We discuss the upcoming elections and Aníta tells me that she would prefer a strong female candidate. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir [who was Iceland’s first female president and the first female elected head of state in history] was so eloquent and so charming, she adds.) Aníta: When we premiered Emil of Lönneberga, Vigdís was in attendance. At the time, the president attended all of the premieres at the National Theater, you see, and sat in the box. My grandmother, who looked a lot like Vigdís, was there also and she had seats in the box too. Then, when my grandmother walked in, the audience rose to their feet and began applauding – and my grandmother, who is a very modest person, was quite embarrassed. But that just goes to show how adored Vigdís was. SKE: Perhaps that’s something that the other candidates are lacking, there are few candidates that one would rise for of one’s own accord at the National Theater. But maybe the times have changed … (We laugh.) SKE: Vigdís was also so classy when she was strolling alongside of Ronald Reagan in Reykjavík. But time has run away from us … would you like to add something? Tell me more about the “one who got away”. Aníta: Maybe next lifetime …
(Aníta laughs.) Aníta: I began playing the recorder when I was five years old. Then I transitioned into the alto flute, because my mother had played the alto flute. I didn’t enjoy it. I still feel bad for my teacher, Linda, because she was so nice but also so genuinely disappointed with me during each lesson. I had become quite good at reading notes because I never bothered to practice. (Aníta laughs heartily.)
(We laugh. I tell her that I had been thinking the same thing when I was listening to Werner’s interview on Entitled Opinions. I realize that our admiration for Werner Herzog has taken us off into a kind of conversational wilderness, a wilderness, albeit, that revealed some very interesting aspects of Aníta’s character.)
Aníta: In the States I often hear: “Your compatriots, I like them! They don’t take no nonsense from nobody! They imprisoned the bankers! And when they protest the government listens!” That’s the attitude towards Icelanders in America. I understand the anger; the postcrisis era was really difficult for a lot of people. People have a short fuse these days and I think that’s good. We need to reevaluate what is legal versus what is ethical. That’s the root of the problem, which stretches back to Wall Street. It’s important that we address this issue so that the younger generation understands what it means to live ethically.
Aníta: I wanted to learn the piano but I have such small hands. (Aníta raises her splayed palm into the air – it looks like the open palm of a toddler. I too have very small hands and stretch my palms towards hers as an exercise in
(We laugh. I thank Aníta for the conversation and we step outside to the terrace. As usual, I assume the role of Allan’s personal assistant; it’s a kind of demotion. I angle the flash towards Aníta’s face as Allan takes pictures. She’s standing with her back to Mt. Esja. and I notice that inside, behind the windows, some of the restaurant patrons are shooting us the occasional, curious glances. There is one woman, in her 30s, a bit homely, who appears to be sulking by the window. She looks at Aníta the way that Salieri would look at Mozart, I imagine: “two kinds of people,” I think, “the tedious and the boring.”)
Exhibitions
12
GENGIÐ Í BJÖRG Eggert Pétursson and Helgi Þorgils Friðjónsson On April 9th an exhibition of the works of Eggert Pétursson and Helga Þorgils Friðjónsson opened at the ASÍ Art Museum. The exhibition features mainly drawings and paintings that the two artists have made together, along with an installation in the lower part of the museum, Gryfjan. The idea for this exhibition traces its roots back to a book publishing project. Today, the book has come to life and it contains images of all the works displayed in the exhibition. Where: Listasafn ASÍ, Freyjugötu 41 When: Runs until May 9th 2016 Open all days except mondays from 13 - 17 Free admission
Viaggio sentimentale Ólöf Nordal On April 9th Ólöf Nordal's exhibition Viaggio sentimentale opened in the Harbinger project space.Early this year, as Ólöf Nordal embarked on her journey to Rome, she brought several photographs in black and white along with her, which had been taken 60 years ago on her parents’ honeymoon. The photographs show landmarks and famous buildings in the city, as well as the occasional glimpse of her parents. Even though the main objective of Nordal’s journey wasn‘t to follow in the footsteps of her parents, it is this element that has now been transformed into an exhibition. Ólöf's works can be found in the collections of the Icelandic Museum of Art, the Reykjavík Museum of Art, Spron Art collection and Safn, as well as in private collections internationally. Ólöf has received a variety of grants and recognitions for her work, e.g. from the Dungal Art fund, the Erró Grant and a recognition from the sculpture fund of Richard Serra.
Design and Fine Art MA Degree Exhibition The Iceland Academy of the Arts’ MA Degree Exhibition by students of Design and Fine Art opened on April 16th in the Kópavogur Art Museum (Gerðarsafn). The exhibition showcases the results of two years’ worth of hard work by students at the Masters level, where designers and visual artists have had a chance to hone their skills and do research into their respective fields. Emphasis is on creative and analytical thinking that benefits innovative projects in design and visual art in Iceland. Where: KÓPAVOGUR ART MUSEUM - GERÐARSAFN, Hamraborg 4 When:: Runs until May 8th Sunday, April 24th at 15:00 Guided tour of the exhibition with design student
Disruption Ásmundur Sveinsson and Elín Hansdóttir It often falls to artists to challenge old and stagnant attitudes. Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) spoke of trying to make people “aware that they are not just mindless beasts.” According to Elín Hansdóttir (b. 1980), art should “cut the ground from beneath your feet and make you re-evaluate your rigid ideas.” In Disruption, Elín takes on Ásmundur ́s artworks, searching for new vantage points. Elín and Ásmundur work with perspective in different ways: He uses his material to capture the form, while she redefines the space. The contrast between Elín’s recent work and Ásmundur’s heritage opens up a new world for the viewer. Their generations are wildly incompatible, which creates an interesting tension, although they also have some powerful attributes in common. Where: Ásmundasafn, Sigtún, Reykjavík When: Runs until October 9th 2016 Opening Hours: May–Sept.: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct.–April: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Harbinger, Freyjugata 1, 101 Reykjavík When: The exhibition runs until May 8th 2016.
THE HOUSE AT EYRARBAKKI In Between The House at Eyrarbakki Árnessýsla folk museum is located in Húsið, the House, historical home of the Danish merchants built in 1765. Húsið is one of the oldest houses in Iceland and a beautiful monument of Eyrarbakki´s time as the biggest trading place on the south coast. Today one can enjoy exhibitions about the story and culture of the region, famous piano, shawl made out of human hair and the kings pot, are among items. Húsið prides itself with warm and homelike atmosphere.
Opening hours: May 1st - September 30th daily 11.00-18.00 or by an agreement Tel: +354 483 1504 & +354 483 1082 | husid@husid.com | www.husid.com
Díana Júlíusdóttir
In Between is the name of a new exhibition in the Skotið gallery at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography, featuring photographs by Díana Júlíusdóttir. Mountains and magnificent landscapes have always fascinated Díana and she focuses her camera lens on both. In her hiking trips and travels she searches for unique nature and she has interpreted what she encounters with descriptions of the people and nature – as well as the interaction between the two.
In the exhibition, Díana endeavors to present, in a poetic way, the isolated town of Kulusuk, which is often referred to as the door to East Greenland. The children of the town are the images’ main subject matter. Their future is uncertain, due to the town’s dwindling population. The exhibition is very much the result of the inspiration provided by long-abandoned houses, children playing, and spectacular landscapes. The children are happy, powerful, smiling and humble. The town is their playground and it’s captivating in both directions – to its forgotten past and its uncertain future. The landscapes in the background are as frightening as they are romantic. Where: Reykjavík Museum of Photography, Tryggvagötu 15, top floor When: Runs until May 31st 2016 Opening times: Monday - Thursday12:00 – 19:00 Friday 12:00 – 18:00. Weekend 13:00 -17:00 Free entrance
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A RARE, ONCE-INA-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY Around, on and deep within the awesome Langjökull ice gap glacier. Into the Glacier offers various tours to the World's largest ice tunnel. The ice tunnel and caves are located high on Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull. Daily departures from Husafell at 12:30 and from Reykjavik at 9:00.
You can choose from various tours and book online at www.intotheglacier.is Tel: +354 578-2550
Q&A
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Q&A Þorsteinn Guðmundsson Comedian, Actor and Sex Symbol If you were to describe yourself as a piece of furniture in an elaborate IKEA manual – what would said description sound like? Disposable and cheap. Something for everyone. Beware of imitations. Do you intend on running for the office of President of Iceland. No, I’m too afraid that I’ll be elected. If you had to choose between Megan Fox and vegan cheese – which would you choose? I don’t know who Megan Fox is, but I’m sure that she’s more fun than vegan cheese. When was the last time you laughed so hard that milk spilled from your nostrils? When I was twelve years old and laughed at everything. What do you think about when you can’t sleep at 4 AM in the morning and it’s raining? I think of how lucky I am to be inside.
Favorite quote / one-liner? “Dying is easy. Comedy is hard.“ If Skúli the owner of the franchise Subway in Iceland offered you a sub of your own choice – what kind of sub would you choose? I don’t know what he has to offer. A lesbian sub, maybe. How does one get Youtube to record videos of one? You sleep with Google. Is the Universe merely an eternal struggle of opposites? No, I don’t think so. It’s more like a man who is about to get married. Is there a purpose to life? And if so, what’s the purpose? Yes, 55% is having a good sense of humor and 40% is sex. The rest is a misunderstanding.
STAY IN THE LOOP Podcast Recommendation of the Week:
SKE Doesn't want you to be out of the loop during your time in Iceland. Here is some useful information, which could serve as an ice-breaker during your conversations with the locals. Elections: Presidential elections will be held on June 25th in Iceland. The winner of the election will become the country's sixth president, succeeding the incumbent Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, who recently announced that he will be seeking a sixth term. A number of Icelanders who had already announced have since dropped out of the race after Ólafur Ragnar’s announcement (Ólafur Ragnar had previously told the media that he would be retiring this summer)
Time is limited. Each day: Wake up. Shower. Breakfast. Coffee. Work. Coffee. Work. Coffee. Lunch. Work. Coffee – podcast? Maybe – but only if said podcast is no longer than 15 minutes. And that’s where Philosophy Bites comes in: complex philosophical ideas compressed into concise 15-minute interviews. Philosophy Bites is hosted by Nigel Warburton, an author and former lecturer, and David Edmunds, an experienced journalist from that royal institution popularly known as the BBC. Each episode features an interview with a specialist on a given philosophical topic; this is cerebral nourishment of the best variety. SKE recommends the episode with Barry Smith on wine. Podcast is power.
Sports: The Icelandic MMA fighter Gunnar Nelson is scheduled to step into the ring against Albert Tumenov (Russia) on May 8th in Rotterdamn. Gunnar Nelson has become something of a national hero in the eyes of his countrymen, although he suffered a disappointing loss against Demian Maia last December. Gunnar is, however, determined to begin his ascent towards the top of the division in May. Conor McGregor, who recently announced his retirement – and then decided against it – is in Iceland helping Gunnar Nelson train. Gossip: Star couple Kanye West and Kim Kardashian arrived in Iceland on the 17th of April and stayed for a few days. According to gossip mongers, the purpose of Kanye West’s visit was to shoot a music video. The couple posted pictures of themselves posing next to the famous Gullfosss waterfall shortly after arriving and visited many other Icelandic landmarks.
Music: Popular Icelandic singer Friðrik Dór released a new song this April entitled Dönsum (eins og hálfvitar), or Let’s Dance (Like We’re Idiots) in English. The release of the song was accompanied with a music video that features 2,712 hand-drawn pictures. Interesting: Neil Michael Hagerty & The Howling Hex are preparing to release their album Denver in the coming weeks. Recently, the band released a music video directed by Fred Armisen (Portlandia, Documentary Now). The video takes place entirely within the set of the Icelandic television channel RÚV (the Icelandic National Broadcast Service), and sees Icelandic reporter Helgi Seljan playing a leading role. Politics: In March, it was revealed that Wintris Inc., a company owned by the wife of Icelandic PM Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson, Anna Sigurlaug Pálsdóttir, is claiming 515 million ISK from Iceland’s crashed banks (the company is based in the British Virgin Islands – a well-known offshore tax haven). The Prime Minister concealed his knowledge of the company and was later forced to resign after thousands of Icelanders protested in front of Parliament (and after a special investigative TV special was aired on the National Broadcast Service – in which the PM stormed out of an interview). The government has promised voters that parliamentary elections will be held next fall. Until then, Sigurður Ingi Jóhannsson, the former Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture, will serve as Prime Minister.
Words: Edda Kentish
Prime Minister Madlibs A fabricated diary entry with optional, fictional extras. Dear diary, Today, I had an interview with a Swedish reporter. He was really sneaky so I decided to ______________. When I came home, I __________ and immediately talked to my wife, who decided to ____________ to see if it would be possible to make everything go away. A few days later, my wife announced on the Facebook that everything that was being said (but not publically yet) was a big, fat ______________. Then everyone started talking about what she wrote on the Facebook and people were really __________________. They probably also thought the Swedish “reporter” did a bad job. A few weeks later, everybody in Iceland got to see the _______________ interview and the ________________ answers I gave. For some reason, people have been _______________ ever since. And throwing bananas. I don’t know why. It seems like they really ____________________ me. But I did nothing illegal. It was just like those, erm, trade unions did. I think that is what they are called. Or something like that. Then, a few days after the television show, I decided to go to the president to _______________ so I could have the final word. I am good with the words. But in his press conference, he did not tell _____________. I am not a bad guy like that. But no matter. Even though I didn’t ___________ party members I was doing the __________ best possible thing. Now, Sigurður Ingi is prime minister. He is such a ________________ guy. He will be easy to ___________________ if I have to. He also has so many nice _________________. They are nearly as nice as my _________________. Now that I am no longer Prime Minister I think I will go on holiday to _________________ with my family to visit my _________________________ and have a ______________ time.
Possible insertions, if you need inspiration: 1. storm out 2. was a little uneasy 3. write a statement 4. lie 5. angry 6. really really unfair 7. great and completely true 8. pretty upset 9. do not like 10. force him to break up the government 11. the truth 12. even speak to my own 13. completely honest and 14. fun 15. control 16. ascots and thumb rings. 17. sneaker that I wore to meet Obama. 18. Tortola 19. money 20. really productive
A LESSON IN ICELANDIC
Ég kem alveg af fjöllum (Jeg-chem-a-ll-vech-auv-fjo-tl-um) The Icelandic phrase “Ég kem alveg af fjöllum” loosely translates into “I come from the mountains” in English. This phrase, which certainly belittles mountain dwellers the world over, is used to indicate that you have no idea what is going on (or what someone is talking about). This is the kind of phrase you would employ if you were an Icelander who recently returned back home after a month abroad without a wi-fi connection, to find that your PM has resigned and that your old president who had previously announced that he was leaving office after a 20-year term was throwing his hat back in the ring hoping to be re-elected.
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18
Quote of the Month
Iceland is like the Garden of Eden, if instead of evicting Adam and Eve, God chose to envelop the garden with an ocean and lay waste to the vegetation by obscuring the sun and battering the land with bad weather. After a few generations, the offspring that Adam and Eve would eventually come to produce would greatly resemble the modern Icelandic tribe: a nation of pale cousins – who are slightly resentful of God. Thomas Jefferson Snodgrass
The Daily Diet of the Mountain Icelandic strongman Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson, better known as the Mountain from the popular TV series Game of Thrones, recently decided to go the way of many questionable politicians – and open his books. But, mind you, these were not books as in bookkepping books (listing his offshore holdings in well-known tax havens), but books as in a diary entry recounting his daily diet. Oh, but his revelation was just as shocking. According to his dietary confessions, the Mountain consumes over 30 raw eggs a day, 1.5 kilos of potatoes and almost 1 kilo of beef. Here’s what you must eat (and do) to be strong like the human equivalent of a natural geographical elevation (a mountain): 06.50 — 30-minute morning workout (cardio and core) followed by a protein shake (BCCA, glutamine) and a handful of almonds. 07.30 — Eight eggs, 200g oats, blueberries, strawberries and an avocado. 09.30 — 400g beef, 400g sweet potatoes, a handful of spinach and greens. 11.50 — BCCA, glutamine (protein). 12.00 — 400g chicken, 400g potatoes, greens and fruit. 14:00 — 150g oats or sweet potatoes, two bananas, 150g Kellogg’s Rice Krispies, frozen berries, a handful of almonds, peanut butter and glutamine (all blended). 14.30 — Strongman training followed by a protein shake (BCCA, glutamine, Vitargo). 17.30 — 60g protein, two bananas. 18:00 — 500g beef, 500g potatoes, greens. 20.30 — 500g salmon, 500g sweet potatoes. 10.30 — 50g casein protein or six eggs, an avocado, 30g almonds, 50g peanut butter.
THE DELI • BANKASTRÆTI 14 • SÍMI 551 6000
Midnight — 50g casein protein or raw eggs. *Drink a lot of water and juice throughout the day.
Daily guided bus tours Golden Circle Tours Glacier Lagoon Southern Iceland Into the Glacier
www.bustravel.is info@bustravel.is + 354 511 2600
Food tips
20
Búllan Burger Joint Address: Geirsgata 1, 101 Reykjavík I know of only one Icelandic hamburger that has been good enough to take his show on the road; that has made the transition from the relatively small town of Reykjavík to the Big Smoke (aka London); and that has inspired the likes of David Beckham to utter such profound words as “very good burger”. And yet, despite this burger’s success, he has remained true to his character; he has not been moved to change his appearance in order to accentuate his triumph; neither has he begun to adorn himself with any unnecessary frills. If you are wondering what I am talking about – then I am referring here to the unpretentious hamburger at the Burger Joint (Hamborgarabúllan). The hamburger at the Burger Joint never fails to evoke Leonardo da Vinci’s adage “simplicity is the highest form of sophistication”. It consists of a white bread bun (sans sesame seeds), tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, a savory beef patty (usually quite pink) and a sauce combination of mustard, ketchup and mayonnaise. Last weekend, SKE visited the Burger Joint’s flagship restaurant on Geirsgata in Reykjavík. Situated inside of a small, white hut by the old harbor, the Burger Joint is a charming little establishment with a blue-collar atmosphere and quick service. Being uninventive people, who are confined always to the same neural pathways, we ordered the Offer of the Century (Tilboð aldarinnar) – for what must have been the hundredth time. The Offer of the Century consists of a 120 gr burger, french fries and a soda (we then augmented our order to include some Bernaise sauce to serve as a condiment for our fries). It was not long before the miniature wicker basket arrived on our table with our food. The verdict: the burger had not changed. It was its usual juicy and savory self. All praises due to the Burger Joint! Words: Ragnar Tómas
搀甀渀欀 礀漀甀爀 搀漀渀甀琀 吀䠀刀䔀䔀 䰀伀䌀䄀吀䤀伀一匀 䤀一 吀䠀䔀 䜀刀䔀䄀吀䔀刀 刀䔀夀䬀䨀䄀嘀촀䬀 䄀刀䔀䄀
Slippbarinn Protest Food Address: Mýrargata 2, 101 Reykjavík Yesterday, on April 4th, at just past 17:00 in the afternoon, I left the office in order to attend a protest against the government. I slung my briefcase, along with my camera bag, thoughtlessly around my shoulders and walked out – unaware of the mistake that I was making; I had not walked more than a dozen meters when my shoulder launched into a vehement protest of its own, and I realized that my interest in politics would most likely decline in inverse proportion to the unpleasantness of my shoulder pain (I am no political soldier, merely a loafer who abandons his own principles at the mere hint of adversity). When I arrived at Austurvöllur, a large crowd of people had already gathered, most of which were calm – excepting a single bum, who was apparently in an especially combative mood. He had drowned all of his inhibitions in deep pools of alcohol: “Don’t you start with me!” He yelled at an old man who had looked at him sideways. I shot the older gentleman a brief look of sympathy while Illugi Jökulsson (an Icelandic writer and journalist) gave a speech that I felt was uninspired and long. After I had taken a few photographs, I surrendered to gravity and walked off in the direction of Slippbarinn (a restaurant by Reykjavík’s old harbor on Mýrargata 2). I, unlike Sigmundur Davíð, had decided to leave (former Prime Minister Sigmundur Davíð did not resign until a day later). But it’s not like anyone cared. At Slippbarinn I met my wife and we ordered a glass of Pepsi and some carbonated water, as we reviewed the menu. After considerable culinary contemplation, we finally decided to share three dishes (because socialism, you know?). We ordered some gratinated cheese (gratinated Búri cheese with honey, pine nuts and bread); some calamari (deep-fried calamari tempura and chili aioli); along with the fish of the day (deep-fried). As we waited for the food to arrive we discussed politics and contributed nothing of intelligence to the ongoing social discussion; my wife suggested that the Prime Minister had damaged the reputation of Icelanders abroad – while I mused, out loud, who would win in a bout of Icelandic wrestling: Sigmundur Davíð, Putin or Poroshenko. Poroshenko, I suggested: “He’s the kind of guy that doesn’t pull any punches, you know?” (Without knowing anything about the man.) The food arrived a little later and each dish was better than the next. Partaking in the gratinated cheese was like playing tongue-tennis with God – and the calamari was like something out of the Devil’s kitchen, as if the Devil himself had prepared it (it somehow convinced me to abandon all my virtues, moderation, for example). The fish of the day was on a par with the other two dishes.
伀瀀攀渀㨀 㜀 䄀䴀 ጠ 倀䴀⨀ ⨀䰀愀甀最愀瘀攀最甀爀 愀渀搀 䠀愀最愀猀洀爀椀 䰀愀甀最愀瘀攀最甀爀 ㌀ 簀 䠀愀最愀猀洀爀椀 㤀 簀 䬀爀椀渀最氀愀渀
Slippbarinn is a fine restaurant. The atmosphere is good. At Slippbarinn a man can stare poetically out of the window and heed the warm sound of vinyl records – while the rabble yells obscenities at Parliament. Words: Friðrik Níelsson
Gelato
Gelato is the italian word for icecream. Perlan makes it’s own italian gelato for you to enjoy with the spectacular view overseeing the city in any direction.
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Design
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Scarab Earrings with Stones Orri Finn A beautiful pair of earrings from Orri Finn’s Scarab collection. Orri Finn is the design label of Orri Finnbogason and Helga Gvuðrún Friðriksdóttir located on Skólavörðustígur 17a in downtown Reykjavík.
Gardenparty White Leaves Mug Sveinbjörg Design Porcelain thermo-mug with silicone lid (holds 235 ml.). Keeps your drink warm and makes sure you don't burn your fingers. Sveinbjörg products are available online at www.design.sveinbjorg.is and at Kraum on Aðalstræti 10.
Ram Cuff Links Krista Design Stainless steel ram-shaped cuff links. Krista Design products are available at Systur & Makar, located on the main shopping street (Laugavegur 40).
Sun Hat Vík Prjónsdóttir 100% lambswool winter hat lets you carry a headful of sunlight into the darkness. Vík Prjónsdóttir products are available online at www.vikprjonsdottir.com.
Katanes Farmers Market
Sheep’s Tie Mókollur
A warm and cozy woolen poncho made from 100% virgin wool.
The Sheep’s Tie is knitted using wool from the Icelandic sheep – the animal that has formed the backbone of Icelandic life since the time of the settlement.
Farmers Market is an Icelandic design company and clothing brand located on Hólmaslóð 2 in the Grandi neighborhood of Reykavík.
The Mókollur Sheep’s Tie is available at Kraum on Aðalstræti 10 in central Reykjavík (and online at www.icelandicmarket.com).
Ske
24
On Esjan Every issue SKE analyzes some famous Icelandic landmark (phenomenon) for the benefit of its readership. This issue, Friðrik Níelsson contemplates Mt. Esja (a mountain and a popular hiking route on the outskirts of Reykjavík).
Mt. Esja is that cool range of mountains just north of the capital, popular among those people who prefer to take the stairs – even in nature. There are generally two kinds of people who hike up the mountain: those who are fond of exercise and the outdoors,
Happy Hour!
You know what time it is Prikið, Bankastræti 12 Mondays – Thursdays from 16:00–20:00 Beer–500 ISK
Vegamót, Vegamótastígur 4
and those who care nothing for such things – but are dragged
Thursdays – Saturdays from 22:00–01:00
up the mountain anyway by members of the former class. I have
Wine: 750 ISK
clambered up the mountain a number of times and every time
Stofan Café, Aðalstræti 7
I have done so it has been at the importunity of some intrepid outdoorsman. These outdoorsman have been my friends at the start of the hike, but our friendship has never endured to the journey's conclusion; by the time we reach horizontal ground I have made up my mind to find new friends – ones that are less
Beer: 750 ISK
All days from 16:00–19:00 Beer: 650 ISK Wine: 650 ISK
Kaldi Bar, Laugavegur 20B All days from 16:00- 19:00 Beer: 650 ISK
Hlemmur Square, Laugavegur 105 All days from 16:00–20:00 Beer: 600 ISK
inclined towards mountaineering, and more keen on the art of
Wine: 600 ISK
idle nothingness. Some have said that the mountain is a kind of
Slippbarinn, Mýrargata 2
panacea, and perhaps it is, for some; I once tried to cure a hangover with the mountain but ended up defiling some bushes with vomit, while simultaneously insulting a redwing who had taken refuge in the bush after hearing me approach. Despite these detractions I am quite fond of the mountain for it reminds me, in some ways, of my former girlfriend: large, unshapely and rarely inspiring the urge to mount her.
All days from 15:00–18:00 Beer: 500 ISK Wine: 500 ISK
Bar 11, Hverfisgata 18 Thursdays - Saturdays from 21:00–00:00 Beer 500 ISK
Kaffibarinn, Bergstaðastræti 1 All days from 15:00–20:00 Beer: 650 ISK
Barber Bar, Laugavegur 66-68 All days from 16:00–19:00 Beer: 650 ISK
Words: Friðrik Níelsson
Wine: 650 ISK
Loftið, Austurstræti 9 Wedensdays - Saturdays from 16:00–21:00 Beer 600 ISK Wine 700 ISK
At Public House Gastropub we put an emphasis on serving fun dining along with some quality ambience. We use Icelandic ingredients but we add some japanese flair to our dishes because we like to have fun with our food and drinks.
TRY OUR PHGP TASTE OF ICELAND
I‘M TRAPPED Slow cooked LAMB SHANK doughnut | Apricot jam
LOL Cured PUFFIN with liquorice | Cherries | Blue cheese sauce
SENBAI Thyme smoked ARCTIC CHARR on a senbai cracker | Dill mayo | Chimichurri
TATAKI REINDEER TATAKI with Icelandic blue cheese | Smoked sour cream | Amazu ponzu
PUBLIC HOUSE GASTROPUB Laugavegur 24 | Tel. 555 7333 publichouse@publichouse.is #publichousegastropub publichouse.is
Fashion
26
Una Valrún
Fashion Design Student
Síta Valrún
Artist & Stylist
VAN’S 50TH “OFF THE WALL” Everyone who has ever owned a pair of Vans sneakers raise your hand. If you yourself haven’t owned a pair, then it is likely that someone you know has. You have, at least, seen a pair – I guarantee it. Vans, one of the most recognizable skateboarding brands in the world, recently celebrated its 50th birthday – and did so by throwing parties and concerts in stores across the world: in Mexico City, Sao Paulo, Kuala Lumpur, Toronto and Austin, Texas, just to name a few. The biggest party, however, which was attended by professional skateboarders and celebrities alike, took place in New York City. It featured musical guests such as Nas, Erykah Badu, the Wu-Tang Clan, Dizzee Rascal, The Kills and Whye Oak. During the party, shoes from different eras were on display, along with shoes that had been designed in collaboration with celebrities. Also, there were a few rare editions. Furthermore, Vans also released a special birthday edition line called Checkered Past, in the classic chessboard style of Vans (a collection that also features backpacks). Usually the patterns are printed on a canvas material but for this special edition, which is only available through the Vans’ premium collection, Vault by Vans, the pattern was weaved onto leather – and it features classic sneakers like the Original Classic, the OG Classic Slip-Ons and the OG Sk8-Hi LX. I would love a pair of the low OG Classic Slip-Ons and the LX for this spring.
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Can’t catch the Nortern Lights? Don’t worry, we have already done it for you!
Visit us and enjoy our multimedia exhibition
OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 09.00–21.00
Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Near the old harbour Tel: (+354) 780 4500 - www.aurorareykjavik.is @aurorareykjavik
@aurorareykjavik
@aurorareykjavik
28
Protests on Austurvรถllur 04.04.2016
A VIBRANT URBAN MARKET HEALTHY LIVING IN THE HEART OF REYKJAVÍK A visit to LIFANDI Markaður organic grocery is a truly sensory experience. The shop´s inviting atmosphere is enhanced by warm textured wood, the scent of exotic spices and the gentle icker of candles in the rastaurant. Judging by the rush at lunchtime, LIFANDI Markaður is very popular with locals seeking fresh and wholesome fare, served with a smile.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL Shopping in LIFANDI Markaður will invariably make you hungry, so it´s a good thing that the grocery portion of the store is partnered with a casually chic restaurant which prides itself on using the highest quality raw ingredients available. The reasonably - priced menu changes daily, and chefs are encouraged to improvise so that each dish incorporates the freshest foods on hand that day. Every menu includes an enticing vegan or vegetarian option as well as meat or sh dishes, and ingredients are listed so that anyone with allergies or intolerances can enjoy their meal without worry. For folks on the run , LIFANDI Markaður provides delicious sandwiches, wraps, and energy bars, as well as hot takeout meals, all ready in biodegradable or compostable packaging. Even the takeout utensils and smoothie cups are made of corn plastic, so eating on the go can be fast, avourful, and environmentally friendly
NEWLY OPENED BREAKFAST BAR On weekdays from 7:15 to 10:00 am, LIFANDI Markaður offers several scrumptious breakfast options including greek yogurt with fruit, chia pudding, in and scrambled or poached eggs along with grilled tomatoes, halloumi cheese and fresh sourdough bred, baked inhouse daily. An organic oatmeal buffet is also on hand, with all sorts of tasty toppings. A power breakfast wouldn´t be complete without LIFANDI Markaður´s own Green Thunder smoothie, packed with mango, spinach and an energising burst of ginger. Open until 8:00 pm during the week, LIFANDI Markaður´s wonderful staff promise their clientele exciting and nutririous choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
THE TRAVELLER´S ONE STOP SHOP Centrally located in Reykjavík at Borgartún 24 and walking distance from downtown, LIFANDI Markaður provides tourists and locals alike with one of the widest varierties of certiLI -ed organic and ethically sourced products in Iceland. Whether stocking up on supplies for your holiday apartment or grabbing food to take on the road, travellers can be sure to nd an impressive range of the highest quality natural products - everything from fresh produce and baked goods to cosmetics, baby food and bulk organic nuts and dried fruit. Foodies will appreciate the many locally produced Icelandic specialties which include organic lamb, birch and angelica teas, lupin-infused juices, sea salts and creamy cheeses. Visitors to Reykjavík will discover that maintaining a healthy lifestyle away from home is easy at LIFANDI Markaður - the “ living market” for people who really like to live well. - MJA
30
BACKDRAFT Thoughts on the Current Political Landscape (Published on SKE’s website on April 6th, 2016) I heard once a story about a firefighter – a firefighter who hurtled himself headlong into a burning building, accompanied by a band of intrepid associates. Onwards he went, past the smoke and the fumes and the occasional bolting resident, without so much as a vain hesitation. Seconds before the building exploded into a veritable and ungovernable conflagration, the firefighter turned his associates ‘round and exhorted them to flee. He did so, not because his courage had been routed by a reasonable feeling of panic, but because he had suspected that he and his troop would soon become the impotent casualties of some unforeseen disaster. Afterwards, when he had recovered from the shock that usually accompanies such an uncomfortable proximity to death, the firefighter was interrogated by a crowd of inquisitive reporters. “Why did you urge your men to leave?” they inquired. The firefighter could make no clear account of his actions, but stated, simply, that he had had a hunch: “There was something about the billowing of the smoke; the taste of the air; the silent severity of the heat.” The firefighter recalled that he had encountered this phenomenon before – known among professionals as a “backdraft” – but at the time his conscious mind had been unable to translate the feeling into language. In Iceland, we are experiencing this same state of inarticulateness. We seem, in our protests, to be spurred onwards by an elusive, all-consuming hunch – but our conscious minds (or our journalists) are unable to translate this hunch into coherent language. We have been here before, but we cannot find our words. Yesterday (April 5th), as I strolled down Austurstræti towards work, I was buttonholed by a member of the foreign media, who had caught me, like so many other pedestrians, off guard; I was groggy, aloof and predictably preoccupied with a podcast (concerning the life of George Orwell). As I stared indecisively into the dark lens of his camera, I tried my best to answer his questions – but I could no more communicate my feeling than the firefighter could, moments before the backdraft. I realize now what I would have liked to have said: “What the government fails to comprehend, blinded as all governments are by their desire to remain in power, is that the nature of this present crisis has less to do with the
[1] Following the conspicuous wreckage of our national economy in 2008, it seemed as if our reputation had been permanently painted with a thick coat of black tar. What made things worse, was the prideful prelude to our crash. We had fashioned an account of ourselves as a nation of Nietzschean supermen, who rose beyond themselves to the improbable masters of global finance. Today there is a whiff of that same, pungent irony; our judicial efforts have been trumpeted abroad as proof that we are a reforming nation systematically uprooting corruption and jailing bankers. But once again, we find holes in our narrative
legality of the Prime Minister’s actions (and that of his fellow cabinet members) – and more to do with an elusive and ineffable hunch, inspired by a vague constellation of signs. “You see,”
“The government has, unwittingly, got us thinking about the fragments of patriarchy; once again, two of the highest offices in our country are occupied by middle-aged, upperclass, wealthy, white men.[3]” “The government has sought to justify its blunders with reference to economic prosperity, deaf to the current connotations of the term – to the irony that reverberates when we speak the word ‘2007’.”
“It’s like we are rushing through the narrow hallway of a “The government has, at least as far as the Prime Minister burning building (which is is concerned, behaved with a shameful arrogance and what this current media debacle condescension towards the ‘meddlesome’ media (of course, is) – and a disagreeable tingling the media is not wholly free of blame).” has begun to inch its way up our spine. And as we race onwards I would have liked to have paused here, for rhetorical our subconscious minds are effect, before summing up my ideas with the following and registering, one by one, the dramatically underscored words: hazy signs of an impending explosion.” “These signs, considered together, among others, seem to inspire an ineffable feeling of suspicion and dread – as if we “Here are some of these signs, as were all rushing headlong into a burning building, soon I intuit them.” to become the impotent casualties of some unforeseen disaster.” “The government has dragged the ghost of Tortola from its “And can you blame us? We have been burned before – and grave (and all that Tortola we have come to loathe the peeling of dead skin.” implies) and set it wandering about our streets, stirring, once “Furthermore, we observe not only some of the same again, the specter of distrust in red lights that flickered ominously before the infamous the hearts of our countrymen financial crisis, but also those other flickering lights, – a specter which seems to more distant and more vague – but no less ominous – that whisper opacity and deception.” portend of a much more permanent crisis:” “The government (the Prime Minister, primarily) has roused the attention of the foreign media, suggesting that our island may, once again, be permeated with the stench of a pungent irony. It smells of international discredit.[1]” “The government has directed our attention to that damning, dilating gulf that stretches between the working classes and the wealthy, and, when we begin to consider it – we find that the government has made little effort in redressing this burgeoning inequality.[2]”
[2] A recent report by Oxfam, published earlier this year, showed that 62 of the world’s richest billionaires owned as much wealth as the poorer half of the world’s population. This is the unnerving truth that serves as the backdrop to the 1,2 billion ISK possessed by the Prime Minister and his wife. Is it far-fetched to assume that if you were to lump the Prime Minister and his wife’s 1.2 billion ISK in with the fortunes of Iceland’s 62 wealthiest people that the aggregate would far exceed the collective savings of the bottom half of Iceland’s population?
“The world grows increasingly hotter; the temperature rises; bombs explode; inequality grows; and we the people abandon ourselves, thoughtlessly, to technology, while continuing to burn fossil fuels.” “Once again, we await the fateful backdraft of history ....” (I would also like to stress, that in the midst of our demonstrations, we, the protestors, have behaved ourselves shamefully: We have stooped to personal attacks and threats; have succeeded in making a mob of stupid bullies of ourselves; and have sought to exclude some of our compatriots, and fellow human beings, by employing that most ugly of dichotomies: US and THEM.)
Words: Ragnar Tómas
[3] Two days ago, Gunnlaugur Sigmundsson (the PM's father), referred to the leader of the Left-Green party, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, as “cute and polite.”