Ske - #4 (English version) by Ske - Magazine

1 What’s happening

Plan your perfect day

On the Black Death Craze

SKE plans your perfect day in Reykjavík: peak inside for further details.

A brief ironic discourse on the black death in Iceland, and how it may hold the key to the modern rent market.

Ske.is 12.06 2015 - 19.06 2015

Your free copy Your guide to what’s going on in iceland

An interview with Susan Parenti and the world’s most jolly doctor:

Patch Adams

Ske

What’s happening

A “Perfect” Day – Pt. 4 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. Yesterday, I experienced a day that was wonderful enough to incline me towards exaggeration, and I am confident that if any traveler were to follow in my footsteps, then they too would feel the same. It was, in all honesty, a perfect day.

10:00 - Laugardalur Swimming Pool – Rise of the Machines I began my day at the pool. But not just any pool. I visited Reykjavík’s largest pool. Laugardalslaugin (the Laugardalur Swimming Pool) is located in Laugardalur, where in the olden days women used to take their laundry to wash. These days, women no longer wash their clothes but delegate the task to the machines (men delegate as well). I suspect that 500 years from now, the machines will revolt against humanity and begin their mutiny by liberating the washing machines (they are the most pitiable of machines). I payed admission and carried myself to the locker room, where I proceeded to divest myself of my clothes. I then sauntered off to the showers, where I observed a tourist cowering in the corner, attempting to conceal his privates with visible paranoia (Icelandic pool patrons are required to wash in the nude, or else suffer the broomstick jabs of an irate janitor). I shrugged my shoulders at the spectacle and exited to the pool. In Laugardalur there is a shallow disc-shaped “pot” filled with warm water (a kind of hot tub). I climbed into the disc at around 10:30 and promptly fell asleep. I dozed until half past 11 and when I awoke I swam a few laps. It was nice.

12:30 - Pylsuvagninn at Laugardalur – French Hot-Dog After the pool, I walked to the Hot-Dog Wagon (Pylsuvagninn) next door and purchased a hot dog of the French variety. A French hot dog is different from a regular hot dog in that it is held vertically, which makes for a more natural look. Also the bread is different: instead of regular bread, a cut baguette is impaled with a spike and a sausage is inserted into it. Finally, the French hot dog is more philosophically inclined than the regular hot dog; it is well-versed in the classics and sometimes it says interesting things. But the French hot dog that I was served, however, did not say interesting things. It began to quote Foucault and so I wolfed it down hurriedly so as to spare myself the agony of Foucault’s ungodly terminology.

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Can’t catch the Northern Lights? Don’t worry, we have already done it for you!

13:00 - The Ásmundur Jónsson Museum – The Weatherman

I am 29 years old. I am ancient. I have begun to descend into my grave; all that is left now is to turn 30 and to shut the coffin lid permanently; to lie supine in the darkness and let the worms make a commune of my esophagus; to sink lower and lower and lower until, finally, I reach my forties – at which point I shall exist no longer. But I am determined not to go silently. I shall not be interred into the cold tomb of old age without grasping at the neighboring vegetation, and pulling all the weeds and flowers and insects into the darkness with me. So long as I have fingers, they shall snatch at the fringes of my grave, and clutch, clutch, clutch – clutch towards eternal youth! I suppose that a man begins to age as soon as he stops fighting against his time; against his stagnation; against his descent into hideous conservatism. As soon as man gives up on his ideals; parts with his imagination; and lets slip his grand vision of Utopia – it is all over for him. Thus, this year, so as to seethe against my senescence, I shall go to all the concerts, the festivals, the art galleries, the photography exhibitions, the restaurants and the bars – and drink from the cracked shot-glass of life with renewed vigor. I shall be drunk on wine, sex, food, love and life, like motherfu#&ing Baudelaire. You think, perhaps, that you have seen a man drunk on life, but you have not seen him. You have been mistaken. Henceforth, you shall think back to that man as having approached the vicinity of tipsy, merely … HAHAHAHA! I shall be the liveliest man of all! #foreveryoung #vampireswag

Ske Editors: ritstjorn@ske.is Advertisement: auglysingar@ske.is Interview & Editorial: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Interviewees: Patch Adams & Susan Parenti Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson Photographs from Reykjavik Tattoo convention: The Show Shutter Printing: Ísafoldarprentsmiðja Design & Layout: Hlynur Ingólfsson, Lifandi verkefni ehf.

Not far from the Laugardalur swimming pool is the Ásmundur Sveinsson Museum. If you are unfamiliar with Ásmundur Sveinsson, then I shall tell you about him. He was one of the pioneers of Icelandic sculpture, and he designed the museum and built it mostly by himself, living there until he died. During summer, the museum is open from 10-17 and admission is a meager 1,400 ISK. 1,400 ISK is nothing. I have spent 1,400 ISK on an appetizer at a fancy restaurant – and it offered no return besides a lingering feeling of profound thriftlessness. After finishing my French hot dog, I strolled to the museum and ended up spending the majority of my time admiring the sculpture garden. There was one statue, in particular, that I liked. It was called The Weatherman: a naked, whitewashed man with a contemplative face, who leans forward with his hands on his hips and his nose to the wind. Apparently, he is leaning forward so as to better judge the oncoming weather. But he will not make an accurate judgment. Man is no match for the weather: The Weatherman is commentary on the foolishness of man (possibly).

15:00 - Ostabúðin– Skólavörðustígur Skólavörðustígur is that lovely street sloping downwards from the church of Hallgrím, as if it were a kind of red carpet for God (of course, it is neither red nor soft, but there is something to that metaphor). Lining the street, travelers will find many interesting shops and coffeehouses but there is one shop, in particular, that has secured permanent realty in my epicurean heart: a small delicatessen that goes by the name of Ostabúðin (the cheese shop). Ostabúðin sells the most wonderful terrine of foie gras. This terrine may be smeared on toasted bread, or sliced atop a nice cracker, but my own preference dictates that it be consumed solo – without any comestible accompaniment. After having expended numerous calories contemplating art at the Ásmundur Sveinsson museum, I was in need of a snack. I rode my bicycle downtown and dismounted in front of Ostabúðin. After having made unimpressive small talk with the cashier, I purchased a few grams of fois gras terrine. I then took my seat on a bench outside the shop and swallowed the thing whole: It was rich, buttery, sweet and delicious.

18:00 - The Steakhouse – Muga Reserva After the terrine I returned to my apartment and made a reservation at the Steakhouse (Steikhúsið). I then fell asleep and dreamt of discussing the weather with a terrine-eating Foucault in a large Icelandic swimming pool. When I awoke I discovered that I had overslept, and scuttled off to the Steakhouse. Of all the wonderful restaurants in Reykjavík – the Steakhouse is my favorite. What I like about the Steakhouse, besides its seemingly endless selection of wine, is that it affords its patrons the opportunity of designing their own meal. One selects a steak (lamb, beef or horse), a side dish (baked potato, sweet potato, salad etc.) and a sauce (blue cheese, Bernaise, garlic, etc.) and then one orders some wine. If I were a rich man, who had, say, recently written a best-selling self-help book targeted towards God-fearing conservatives, then I would have ordered the Muga Reserva ‘11 Rioja – but I am not a rich man. I am an indigent magazine writer with no hope for the future, and so I ordered a 25 cl. Glass of Argentinian Syrah (the cheapest glass on the wine list). I sipped my Syrah until the meal arrived, at which point I devoured the dish in mere moments. I then took one final, triumphant sip of my Syrah and gave a toast to artistic integrity. It was a perfect day.

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Music

What’s happening

Stuðmenn in Akureyri

Focus The Dutch progressive rock band Focus will be performing at Gamla Bíó on Friday and at Græni Hatturinn on Saturday. Focus is the Netherland’s most famous band and over the years it has enjoyed great respect among music enthusiasts and critics alike. The band was founded in 1969 and was active until 1978. In 2002, Focus reunited and has toured widely since then, releasing its 10th studio album in 2014. Thijs van Leer Hammond – flute and vocals Pierre van der Linden – drums Menno Gootjes – guitar Bobby Jacobs – bass Where: Bæjarbíó (Friday), Græni Hatturinn (Saturday) When: Friday, June 12th and Saturday, June 13th, 22:00 Price: 8,900 ISK www.midi.is

Ensími Ensími’s 5th studio album Herðubreið will be released in June. In order to celebrate the album’s release, Ensími will be hosting a release concert at Gamla Bíó on June 13th. No expense will be spared. This will be a seated concert where Ensími will play songs from the new album along with a few classics. Ensími was founded in 1996 to quench the artistic thirst of its band members. Originally, the members of the band had not intended on forming a band, but after recording a demo that found its way into the hands of a label executive – there was no turning back. The band’s debut album Kafbátamúsík (Submarine Music) was released in 1998 and it received the unanimous praise of critics and music enthusiasts alike, despite the fact that the band had never performed publicly. Ensími was chosen the brightest hope and its song Atari was chosen as the best song of the Icelandic Music Awards. In 1999, the band began recording its second album, which was recorded largely by Steve Albini, who is best known for his work with Nirvana and The Pixies. As a result, EnsÌmi’s second album, BMX, had a rawer sound than their first one. The band produced a third, eponymous album in 2002 and then released Gæludýr (Pets) in 2010. Ensími is known for its powerful live performances, which is no surprise given that the members of the band are trained professional who regularly appear alongside of Iceland’s most famous musicians. Ensími is stingy in terms of its live performances, which makes this concert a rare treat. Ensími: Hrafn Thoroddsen – Vocals / Guitar Franz Gunnarsson – Guitar / Vocals Guðni Finnsson – Bass / Vocals Þorbjörn Sigurðsson – Keyboard / Vocals Arnar Gíslason – Drums Where: Gamla Bíó When: Saturday, June 13th, 20:00 Price: 3,990 ISK www.tix.is

Stuðmenn, Iceland’s so-called “national band”, will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of their landmark album Sumar á Sýrlandi by performing for the first time at Hof in Akureyri. This will be a showy and fun concert featuring such guests as Dúddi, Ágústa Eva, Sýrlenska Söngsveitin and Lúðraverk sveitalýðsins.

Kótelettan Music Festival 2015

Where: Hof, Akureyri (Strandargata 12) When: Saturday, June 13th, 20:00 Price: 5,400 ISK www.midi.is

Kótelettan Music Festival will be held for the sixth time on June 12th and June 13th in Selfoss. The festival is supported by Eimskip, Pepsi Max, Tuborg, EB Kerfi and a variety of other companies, and it forms a part of the Kótelettan BBQ Festival. Tickets are available in advance online and at Gallery Ozone in Selfoss. The organizers of the festival aim to make it even bigger this year, and there have never been so many talented artists performing at the festival. The festival features many of Iceland’s most famous musicians: Sálin Hans Jóns Míns Amabadama Páll Óskar SSSól Skítamórall Dúndurfréttir with Magni Ásgeirs Dj Muscle Boy Jónas Sig og Ritvélar framtíðarinnar Helgi Björns og Reiðmenn Vindanna Karma Stuðlabandið Love Guru Where: Selfoss When: Friday, June 12th and Saturday, June 13th (see program for a timetable) Price: 6,900 ISK www.midi.is

Royal The band Royal will be throwing a summer ball at Gamla Bíó on Tuesday, June 16th. This will truly be an uplifting experience that will bolster your summer spirit. Everything is better with Royal! Where: Gamla Bíó When: Tuesday, June 16th, 23:00 Price: 2,000 ISK www.midi.is

WINTER & OUTDOOR CLOTHING

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Enter Club Festival (18+)

On Friday, June 12th, the bands Kontinuum and Muck will be performing at Gaukurinn. Kontinuum is an ambient rock band, which has been described as “an astonishing cocktail of punk energy, post-rock weight and ambience, melancholic metal despondency and the occasional flash of Emperor’s ferocity” (Metalhammer). Muck is an Icelandic punk rock band that was formed in 2007, which falls neatly into the categories of hardcore, punk, rock and noise.

Enter Events and Volcanic Energy will host the Enter Club Festival at Spot in Kópavogur. The festival will feature two of the biggest Tech House/Techno DJ’s in Britain, Jamie de Rooy and Steven Sharp (from the Sharp Boys). The club will be filled with glow sticks, balloons, whistles and other similarly fun stuff. Also, the girls from Volcanic will sashay around with water guns filled with alcohol, providing guests with a taste of Volcanic schnapps. Performers: Blaz Roca, Þriðja Hæðin, Herra Hnetusmjör, Smokin Joe, Javi Valiño, GS PRODS inc, Nyxo Stefán Atli, Ársæll Gabríel, Our Psych, DJ Baldur, Orang Volante, Basic House Effect, Dusk, Ghozt, Róbert Freyr, Johann Stone and Átrúnaðargoðin.

Where: Gaukurinn When: Friday, June 12th, 22:00 (doors open at 21:00) Price: 1,000 ISK www.tix.is

Where: Spot, Kópavogur When: Friday, June 12th and Saturday, June 13th, 22:00 Price: 2,500 ISK (pre-sale), 3,000 ISK (at the door) www.tix.is

Kontinuum and Muck

ICEWEAR OUTLET STORE • FÁKAFEN 9 • 108 REYKJAVÍK • TEL 555 7412 • WWW.ICEWEAR.IS OPEN: MON. - FRI. 10:00-18:00 • SAT. 10:00-16:00 • SUN. 12:00-16:00

Music

What’s happening

What’s happening 33. starfsár Listvinafélag Hallgrímskirkju Hallgrimskirkja's Friends of the Arts Society 33rd season

TINA - The Queen of Rock!

Sumarmölin at Drangsnes

Music Festival

Ásgeir – Harpa It has been three years since Ásgeir’s debut album, Dýrð í dauðaþögn (In the Silence), was released in Iceland. The album was critically acclaimed and quickly became one of the best-selling debut albums of all time. Shortly after releasing the album, Ásgeir signed a contract with the British record company One Little Indian for an international, English edition of the album. The album was released in Europe in January 2014 and in Australia and Japan in March. In 2014, Ásgeir was signed by Columbia Records, which subsequently released the album in the US. After its release in the US, the album climbed to the top of the Next Big Sound Billboard chart and reached the top 10 best-selling albums on iTunes in Britain, France, Japan, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. In Iceland, Ásgeir received four awards at the Icelandic Music Awards in 2012, and in December of that same year he was nominated for the Nordic Music Prize. In January, 2014, Ásgeir was one of the recipients of the European Border Breaker Award, which was awarded at the Eurosonic Music Festival in Groningen in the Netherlands. Critics have been generous with their praise of Ásgeir and his album. National Public Radio in the US, TIME, Guardian, Vogue, NME, along with others, have all reviewed the album favorably. The Line of Best Fit placed the album on the top 50 best albums of 2014, and so did Rough Trade. The record was also chosen the best international record in 2014 by GAFFA in Norway, and in the US, one of the most respected broadcasters in the states, Bob Boilen, chose In the Silence as one of the best records of the year. Amazon also selected Ásgeir as one of the Artists to Watch in 2015. Ásgeir has been tremendously popular in Japan and Australia. In Australia, listeners of the Triple J station, and ABC affiliate, chose King and Cross as the tenth best song of 2014. Ásgeir, alongside of his band, has been on a long and nearly non-stop tour of the world for the past two years; he performed at over a 100 concerts in 2014: the zenith of this tour being, undoubtedly, two sold-out performances at the Sydney Opera House in January 2015. In February, Ásgeir has been opening for the Irish singer Hozier in the US, and in May he traveled to Australia as a special guest on the alt-J tour. Ásgeir will be at the top of his game when he steps on stage at the Eldborg hall in Harpa. This will be his biggest concert in Iceland to date. No expense will be spared – and Ásgeir will take to the stage alongside of a string and horn ensemble, alongside of his band. This will be Ásgeir’s final follow-up performance to his record In the Silence; he has already begun work on a new album. This summer he plans on starting the recording process and appearing a few select concerts abroad. Ásgeir plans on releasing his sophomore album in March of next year. Where: Eldborg Hall, Harpa When: Tuesday, June 16th, 20:00, 23:00 Price: 4,990 – 7,990 ISK www.harpa.is

The music festival Sumarmölin á Drangsnesi (Summer Gravel at Drangnes) will be held for the third time on June 13th. The festival is known for its unique atmosphere and mood, in which people of all ages come together to enjoy music in Drangsnes’ singular landscape. For the occasion of this year’s festival, the cream of Iceland’s music scene was recruited to create one fantabulous program. Everyone should be able to find something to their liking. Performers: Retro Stefson Sóley Tilbury Kveld-Úlfur

Borko Ylja Berndsen FM Belfast (DJ)

Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by adults. Where: Drangsnes When: Saturday, June 13th, 19:30 (doors open at 19:00) Price: 4,500 (advance sale), free for children under the age of 12 www.tix.is

Tina – Queen of Rock was premiered at Harpa on May 2nd, 2015. Now, due to popular demand, an additional concert will be held. Tina (Anna Mae Bullock) was born in Nutbush, Tennessee on November 26th, 1939. Her career as a singer began when she was only 16 years old, when she met her future husband Ike Turner. Tina’s voice was one of a kind, and her power, emotion and stage presence captivated her audience from the start. Ike and Tina made a name for themselves in the genres of rhythm & blues and soul, with songs like A Fool in Love, It’s Gonne Work Out Fine, Nutbush City Limits and Proud Mary catapulting Tina to international stardom. Even though Tina shone bright between the years of 19601978, or until the time that she divorced Ike, she would later soar to even higher heights. Tina’s solo album Tiny Dancer was released in 1984 and sold millions of copies internationally. The album featured songs such as What’s Love Got To Do With It, Better Be Good To Me and Private Dancer. The rest is history. Tina has won numerous awards and has been one of the most popular and most respected singers in the world for decades. Tina retired in 2009, when, at the age of 70, she was still at the top of her career. Still to this day, she is known as one of the most popular singers of all time – and still stands on the world’s greatest legs. Tina bears the title Queen of Rock, because she is simply the best. Some of Iceland’s best female singers perform the best songs of Tina Turner. Powerful dancers and great Icelandic musicians make this evening a night to remember. Singers: Sigríður Beinteinsdóttir, Bryndís Ásmundsdóttir, Stefanía Svavarsdóttir, Erna Hrönn and Regína Ósk will perform alongside of dancers and other guests, including the actor Jóhannes Haukur and the guitar hero and singer Vignir Snær. Choreography: Yesmine Olsson Costumes: Filippía Elisdóttir Director: Friðrik Ómar Producer: Rigg Viðburðir Where: Harpa, Eldborg Hall When: June 13th, 20:00 Price: 6,990 – 9,990 ISK www.tix.is

Alþjóðlegt orgelsumar í Hallgrímskirkju 2015

The International Organ Summer in Hallgrímskirkja 2015 13. júní – 9. ágúst / June 13 – August 9 Helgartónleikar

Hádegistónleikar á miðvikudögum kl. 12

með alþjóðlegum konsertorganistum

Schola cantorum

Saturday at 12 noon and Sunday at 5 pm with international concert organists

Lunchtime concerts on Wednesdays at 12 noon Hallgrimskirkja Chamber Choir

Weekend concerts

Í samvinnu við Félag íslenskra organleikara In cooperation with Icelandic Organist Association

18.6 25.6. 2.7.

Djöflafiðla (Devilish Violin) HIMA “A unique concert – all 24 of Nicolo Paganini’s capriccios performed by the same violinist.”

Hádegistónleikar á fimmtudögum kl. 12 Lunchtime concerts on Thursdays at 12 noon

9.7. 16.7. 23.7.

KexJazz

Virtuoso violonist Eric Silberger is a prize winner of the XIV International Tchaikovsky Competition along with the Michael Hill International Violin Competition in 2011. Eric was born into a musical family and is a fifth-generation musician. His mother taught him to play the violin at the age of five. His performances have been described by critics as “spine-tingling … astonishing confidence” (The Guardian), “dazzling virtuoso playing” (The Washington Post), “bold, technically solid, charismatic” (Indianapolis Star), “impeccable level of playing, a wonderful musician” (Heather Kurzbauer, The Strad), and “so electrifying” (DC Theatre Scene). Eric has performed as a soloist, recitalist and chamber musician throughout the United States and around the world. On Sunday, June 14th, Eric will play all of Nicolo Paganini’s capriccios at Harpa.

KexJazz is a weekly jazz concert held at Kex hostel in downtown Reykjavík (held most Tuesdays). KexJazz brings together some of Iceland’s best jazz musicians and so far, it has been Kex’s most consistent event.The driving force behind this event is Sigurður Flosason, a saxophonist par excellence and one of Iceland’s true jazz giants. Daniel Beaussier Quartet, Jóel Pálsson Quartet, Kristjana Stefánsdóttir, Secret Swing Society, Tómas R. Einarsson, Andrea Gylfadóttir, ASA Trio, Sunna Gunnlaugs, Kira Martini Quartet, Sigurður Flosason, Quartet Birgisson, Hjörtur Ingvi Jóhannsson (Hjaltalín), Ari Bragi & Frakkarnir, Þór Breiðfjörð and Björn Thoroddssen are among some of the performers that have played at Kex since the series began.

Where: Harpa, When: Sunday, June 14th, 17:00 Price: 2,500 ISK www.tix.is

Where: Kex Hostel When: Tuesday, June 16th, 2015 Price: Free www.kexland.is

13. 6. kl. 12/12 noon 14. 6. kl. 5/5 pm 20. 6. kl. 12/12 noon 21. 6. kl. 5/5 pm 27. 6. kl. 12/12 noon 28. 6. kl. 5/5 pm 4.7. kl. 12/12 noon 5.7. kl. 5/5 pm 11.7. kl. 12/12 noon 12.7. kl. 5/5 pm 18.7. kl. 12/12 noon

Björn Steinar Sólbergsson, Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík Björn Steinar Sólbergsson, Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík Iveta Apkalna, world famous concert organist, Latvia Iveta Apkalna, Latvia James B. Hicks, Norway/ Virginia Hicks USA soprano James B. Hicks, Norway Elżbieta Karolak, Poland Elżbieta Karolak, Poland Hörður Áskelsson, Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík Hörður Áskelsson, Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík Dexter Kennedy USA, 1. prize winner - Chartre International Organ Competition 2014 19.7. kl. 5/5 pm Dexter Kennedy USA 25.7. kl. 12/12 noon Janos Kristofi, Hungary 26.7. kl. 5/5 pm Janos Kristofi, Hungary 1.8. kl. 12/12 noon Lára Bryndís Eggertsdóttir, Iceland 2.8. kl. 5/5 pm Lára Bryndís Eggertsdóttir, Iceland 8.8. kl. 12/12 noon Andreas Liebig, Basel Münster, Switzerland 9.8. kl. 5/5 pm Andreas Liebig, Basel Münster, Switzerland

30.7. 6.8.

Lenka Mátéová, Kópavogur Church Steinunn Skjenstad soprano Kári Þormar, Dómkirkjan, Reykjavík Jónas Þórir, Bústaðakirkja Reykjavík - film music, Star Wars and more Hörður Áskelsson, Hallgrímskirkja Reykjavík Fjölnir Ólafsson baritone Guðný Einarsdóttir, Fella- og Hólakirkja, Reykjavík Steingrímur Þórhallsson, Neskirkja Reykjavík Pamela de Sensi flute Eyþór Franzson Wechner, Iceland Ágúst Ingi Ágústsson, Iceland

Aðgangseyrir / Admission: Hádegistónleikar / Lunchtime concerts: 2.000 ISK Sunnudagstónleikar / Sunday concerts: 2.500 ISK Listvinir fá frítt inn á orgeltónleika sumarsins. Free entrance to all organ concerts for members of the HallgrÍmskirkja Friends of the Arts Society.

Hallgrímskirkja, Skólavörðuholti, 101 Reykjavík Miðasala við innganginn / ticket sale at the entrance. Sími / tel.: +354 510 1000 list@hallgrimskirkja.is - www.listvinafelag.is

What’s happening

“Every day, both of us work our butts off for peace and justice and care.” (Patch Adams was portrayed by the late Robin Williams in the 1998 film that bore his name (Patch Adams). Patch is a doctor, a clown and a humanitarian, and he will be lecturing in Iceland on June 14th at Háskólabíó. Patch is joined in Iceland by his partner, Susan Parenti – who is a playwright, poet and writer. Susan’s play “Unrequited” was premiered in Iceland on two separate occasions this week. Last week, I spoke to the two of them.)

some strategies for loving; why I do it; what I love about loving; and why it makes me so happy.

While preparing for this interview, I watched six hours of Patch Adams’ lectures online. Watching a Patch Adams lecture is to imbibe an antidote to everything that is awry with the world. Through his lectures, Patch somehow manages to put his arms around the world and begin shaking, until slowly, bit by bit, the listener’s ingrained conceptual value system comes loose: things are no longer separate constituents of an increasingly monetized system – but one grand unity held together by the universal adhesive of love.

Me: Yesterday, while I was doing research for the interview, I must have watched about five or six hours of lectures by Mr. Patch Adams …

constantly trying to validate myself in a macho world and so I am serious. But then I meet a man who wants to validate himself in a feminist world and he’s silly. It’s been charming to add “silly” to the components of the things we do. I think we try to find the Monty Python in moments all the time. Things can be very serious but yet they are half an inch away from hilarious. Patch is much more romantic than me, but again: he’s trying to survive in a macho world by being more womanly, and I try to survive in a macho world by being more serious and intent. So it’s correct that he’s romantic and I’m rather disciplinary (laughs).

Patch: I apologize.

Patch: Can I interrupt?

Me: No, it was great. I felt like, to quote you, that I had “dived into an ocean of gratitude and couldn’t find the shore” (until, of course, this morning when I woke up). You seem like such a balanced guy. How do you maintain that balance – that happiness?

Susan: What, you’re going to tell ‘em how it really is?

Patch: In the short form, how I describe it is like this: At the age of 18 I decided to make me, and that’s where the gratitude and the idea of living from intention comes from. That’s one option: and the Buddhists call it “mindfulness”: being present and deciding who you’re gonna be. Rather than to, what the teenagers say here in the US – be “whatever”. I’m not ever “whatever”. I feel that I’ve worked for peace and justice and care, and I think that those things are actually asking me to be focused all the time.

Patch: But Susan is an intensely romantic woman. How I describe it in my …

I dial Patch Adams on Skype and his assistant, Derek, picks up. I begin by telling Derek that due to a webcam malfunction, Susan and Patch will be deprived of the pleasure of experiencing me visually (irony).

“As a physician and a human being, I realized how few people actually had strategies for loving.” – Patch Adams

I discuss the weather with Derek (I have no imagination), while Susan and Patch get themselves ready. Derek quickly tires of the uninspired nature of my small talk and announces that he has to get to work. While he taps along on his keyboard, I wait – an ocean away – and mutter to myself silently and selfloathingly. … Patch wanders into the room and inquires whether he should fetch Susan (minutes earlier Susan had made the same suggestion – Derek laughs). I begin our conversation by inquiring about Illinois, where they’re located (again, no imagination). Susan: Illinois is hot. Illinois is a corn-field with a lot of chemically-induced corn. And we’re a university town that gets really quiet in the summer because the university lost funding for summer programming – since the US is not dedicated to education. Me: No, they seem more focused on killing their own citizens and waging war abroad. Patch: We’re indiscriminate in which country we care who we kill. (I laugh) Me: So you’ll be hosting a workshop entitled “What is your Love Strategy?” followed by a lecture on June 14th. Can you tell us a little bit about the workshop and the lecture?

Patch: I developed “What is your Love Strategy?” after 9/11 in the United States. Because that morning, when I could see my country really anxious to go and kill lots of people, I asked them if I, as the famous guy, could go on CNN and talk about a strategy of loving to address the issue. They said no one would be interested. Instead I created this workshop. As a physician and a human being, I realized how few people actually had strategies for loving. So the workshop is an hour and a half of intimate exercises, which are lots of fun, followed by

Interview: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson

Susan then asks him to explain why he uses the word “strategy”. Patch explains that the word signifies a method of bringing intelligence to situations, in this context where “loving” is involved (whether in terms of relationships, dating, raising children, etc.)

Me: Patch, you’ve said that over the years you’ve become much better at courtship and relationships. Can you vouch for this, Susan? What’s it like being in a relationship with Patch?

Patch: Well, maybe Susan wants to protect an image that she might have among her friends. Susan: I’m one tough cookie, my friend

Susan: There’s laughter in the office here (laughs). Patch: What I notice is that when I wake up with her and look in her face, I see that she’s thrilled that I’m there. And it’s not thrilled “one day” or “I’m-looking for-it” thrilled: This is how she is to me. It’s always today’s romance – however great yesterday’s was. It’s today’s moment. I’m looking you in the eyes and you zap me with tenderness. And I wished we had a long time to really explore. Because I know Susan as an extremely romantic woman, in her gestures with the world, in her activism, in the way she cares for friends, and being the recipient of feeling that, after 23 years of “yum yum”, it only gets sweeter. I then ask them how long they’ve been together.

Susan: Uuuuuhhhmm … Let’s see (laughs). Patch: I pay her. (We laugh) Susan: Well, I think we both kind of found the minimal indispensable qualities that we would like in order to spend time with another person – with respect and affection. For Patch and me, the obsession, the passion, the determination to be changing things for the better – for everybody – is something that really holds us together. It is an intellectual commitment, one could say. I can rely on Patch to be as I am: tuned into the world and wanting daily that it goes better. A day that I can’t be focused on that is a day that I don’t want to be living. For people who are political activists, you have to really be able to count on them because you’re creating an imaginary world of your preferences and you have to know that the people you love are doing what they say, so that you can go on to the next step. We also do lots of silly things. I am not a particularly silly person from my training because as a woman I’m

Susan tells me that they’ve known each other since 1987. She tells me that one of the reasons that she fell for him, besides the fact that he had a fantastic compositional model of a healthcare delivery system (Susan is a teacher at The School for Designing a Society), Patch was also one of the few doctors that could recite poetry and was an activist. Susan adds that she fell in love with his Gesundheit project, which she describes, rather beautifully – as being like Mahler’s fourth symphony.

“The Buddhists call it ‘mindfulness’: being present and deciding who you’re gonna be. Rather than to, what the teenagers say here in the US – be ‘whatever’. I’m not ever ‘whatever’.” – Patch Adams

I then inquire about the Gesundheit Institute – where it stands.

Patch: I would say in the capitalism system model: the way one answers that question is “how many square feet are finished?” or “when is the ribbon-cutting day for the hospital?” But, if your life-time work is peace and justice – it’s actually not going to happen in your lifetime. I started this project in March of ‘71 and have not mentally taken a day off in these 44 plus years. I thought it would be fully built in ‘75 – but the first big building was started in 2011 (laughs). So what I can say is that we tried a pilot project

What’s happening

for 12 years that was enchanting. It was a romantic Monty Python medical practice (Patch is referring to the original Gesundheit Institute, which was a kind of free community hospital that operated for 12 years). Since then, I’ve been focusing on fund raising – but I am the worst fundraiser in American history. But we’ve been active all over the world: clowns are going into hospitals in a 120 countries. I know that our work is the primary initiator of that. We have built clinics and schools; we’ve taken clowns into war and refugee camps all over the world. Every day, both of us work our butts off for peace and justice and care. And, I myself feel I’m delusional, and mad as a hatter, and feel that we’re right on the threshold of financial concerns not being important. In a world of discouragement and people trying their dreams and then giving up, I really encourage people to know that if you’re making an effort – it’s actually happening every day. It didn’t happen the way we dreamed. But when we cut that ribbon we’re going to be a lot more prepared to be a radiant model than had we gotten the money in the first 20 years.

them to work?; why do things cost so much? – but I think that a lot of people in the last 20 years have had no way to discuss that the way we’re going about things. This play is meant to trigger those questions. I hope that there’ll be discussions so that people can reflect on whether there is something to another system that we’ve dismissed.

“The US has no political system – but merely representatives of big corporations.” – Patch Adams

I then segue into the subject of books … Me: I understand that the Patch Adams library is comprised of some 36,000 books – which is staggering. Patch, who are some of your favorite authors? Patch: Well, I would say that both of us are reading fanatics. I suppose the world would call us “intellectuals”. We don’t read to fill time. We don’t watch TV. We want the art of writing, poetry, drama and fiction, and we want understanding through non-fiction. So, I can say that I just read Kristín Ómarsdóttir. Me: Oh! (I learn that he has just read “Children in the Reindeer Woods”) Patch: I think I have most all of Laxness’ books. Me: Really, have you read all of Laxness? Patch: Not all of them – I have most of them. I started out with “The Fish Can Sing” (Brekkukotsannáll) and “Salka Valka” and “Independent People”. They are all very potent books. When I was there last time I got this writer who uses a single name: I think its Sven? Me: Sjón?

I tell Susan that I listened to a lecture that she gave along with Patch and inquire about her talent for speaking. Susan: Well, I belong to the Frankfurt School of thinking that the way people talk really influences their behavior and how society goes. And so my education in music composition was also an education in how to speak up and how to articulate the things I wanted. And by writing plays I can also sharpen: go from cliché and banality into having some kind of point that’s worth listening to. I write plays a lot from the desire to be politically involved and to raise questions that I think that the media or pop culture aren’t raising. Susan describes her play “Unrequited”, which I am keen on seeing. Susan: In our country, in the US, maybe through boredom or what, questions about socialism and communism are coming back into high schools. Kids want to know if there’s another system besides the big monster of corporate capitalism. I grew up in a time period where the USSR, Cuba and a few South American countries were really pushing in the socialist direction, which the US was constantly trying to suppress. But at least we had conversations late into the night in college about motivations; economics; do people need rewards?; do you need to pay them a lot to get

Great collection, good prices

Me: Patch, I’ve heard you quote Freud, saying “maybe mental illness is a healthy response to a messed up society”. What are some of the things, as a society, we need to begin changing?

Patch gives me his quick interpretation of history. He tells me that for 5,000 years, we’ve relied on a global value system – a male system – nested in greed and power over others, and that is why no political system has ever worked. He says that we should begin embracing a more feminine system: one of compassion and generosity. He explains that market capitalism is the worst disease in human history and the probable cause of our extinction. Over the years, he has interviewed thousands of patients and found that normal adults don’t like themselves; don’t like their marriage; and don’t like their jobs: this is the society that we’ve created. I quote Susan as saying that we think that healthcare is a subset of the economic system, when it should be exactly the opposite. Susan had pointed out in one of her lectures that it’s very simple – the healthcare system is there to preserve a relationship between a doctor and a patient.

I then inquire about Patch being made a member of the so-called Shadow Cabinet in the US.

Susan: The power of this economic value system is evident in how it has begun to infiltrate our language. People speak about “investing their time”, about things being “worth it”, or “bottom lining something” etc. We don’t consider loneliness, being forlorn, or being heartbroken as things that have anything to do with mental illness. They are simply states in the range of human emotions. However, the psychotropic language makes people self-diagnose by saying things like “I’m really manic today” or “I’m really bipolar today”. This is how language is encoding the values of both the business system and of the pharmaceutical system in order for people to talk about themselves in a way that makes it very easy to package themselves and go to a psychiatrist. The relationship between doctor and patient is a vulnerable and wonderful one, and any system that calls itself a “healthcare system” needs to protect that sacred space between a healer and a person who wants to be healed. In the US, the systems are predators: they seize that vulnerable moment when you’re sick or your lover is sick and you’re desperate. You go into a healer situation and instead you meet capitalism at its fiercest. They kick you when you’re down. The system that we see makes itself look really big, but it’s actually not. When you go to third world countries, you see a person in a hut, with a few trinkets, talking to another person who is sick – and that’s really the healthcare relation. All these big campuses, three miles of a hospital stretching out referred to as a campus, the west campus, the north campus, is actually bulls#$t. It’s Kafkaesque. They make it look so big. Often the biggest building in town is the hospital. They huff and puff and they make themselves huge around this vulnerable, quiet relationship between a healer and a person who wants to be healed.

Patch tells me that his membership stems from the fact that the US has no political system – but merely representatives of big corporations.

Me: Yeah, I imagine that Kafka would have a field day if he found himself in a US hospital.

On that note our conversation ends.

“I think I have most all of Laxness’ books.” – Patch Adams

Patch: Sjón! Yes. I picked up “The Blue Fox” along with three or four of his books. We are both fanatics of smart writers: the Dostoyevskys, the Victor Hugos, the Charles Dickens and the Jane Austens. You know, when I was 18 and wanted to change the world, and decided to, I went to the list of Nobel Prize winners and got their books. We’re nerds who love to read. I don’t know if you know, but Susan has a book of plays and a book of poetry.

What’s happening

I segue back to the subject of “Iceland”. Me: This will be your second trip in Iceland. How long are you staying? Any plans? Patch tells me that he became friends with his host and hostess during his last visit; that they had great meals together; and that afterwards he had talked about bringing Susan along for the next trip. And now the both of them will go. Finally, he says he hopes to tour the country.

“For people who are political activists, you have to really be able to count on them because you’re creating an imaginary world of your preferences and you have to know that the people you love are doing what they say, so that you can go on to the next step.” – Susan Parenti

Patch: And on our first day we’re going to Laxness’ museum! Me: Excellent. Patch: It has an unpronounceable name. Patch tries to pronounce “Gljúfrasteinn” – I help him. Patch: Yeah, well, you’re having a spelling problem. Me: Yeah, someone once described the Icelandic language as someone having a really bad night at Scrabble (Susan and Patch laugh). Patch: It’s not quite the Polish language. It still has some vowels, but the Polish language needs a vowel movement. (I laugh) Susan: We’re leaving Iceland on the 17th of June.

Patch: We’re hoping to have a soak in some hot natural spring. But basically we just said “yes” to whatever they set up.

What a wonderful couple.

The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri e:info@theviking.is

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Exhibitions

What’s happening

Víxlverkun Þór Vigfússon

Dominik Smialowski

The artist Þór Vigfússon opened the private exhibition Víxlverkun (Interaction) in the sculpture garden of the Reykjavík Sculpture Association. The unveiling of the work was carried out last Saturday, the 30th of May. Þór has recently collected different objects from steel of varying use and function. This gathering together, lead to a sculpture in which Þór juxtaposes colored morphological surfaces, which can be interpreted as reflecting the structure but at the same time the sculpture reflects the surfaces. An interaction takes place literally and metaphorically as well.

Melancholy The exhibition Melancholy by photographer Dominik Smialowski is based on a science-fictional narrative. It shows staged scenes with a pilot as the main character, lost and desperate after having crashed on foreign soil. Although the pilot knows his situation is hopeless, he looks for some kind of way out. The work is visually compelling and tells a story that requires no text to guide the viewers. The viewers are transported deep into a fictional world that takes hold of their emotions. The protagonist’s elaborate costume is reminiscent of many films with intergalactic exploration story lines, including Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. There are also great similarities to Duncan Jones’ Moon, in which the audience follows a solitary character throughout the film. There is an inherent loneliness associated with this process of introducing only one subject on seemingly foreign lands. Dominik Smialowski, born 1981 in Warsaw, Poland lives and works in Warsaw. His foray into photography began when he received the Warsaw Film School scholarship. Having won awards in various photography competitions, he works as a photographer for many different companies. Where: Ljósmyndasafn Reykjavíkur, Tryggvagötu 15, (6th floor) When: June 4th - August 11th, 2015 Price: Free

What’s happening

Endurvarp Mireya Samper On Saturday at 3 o’clock Mireya Samper’s Endurvarp (Reflection) will be exhibited at the Akureyri Art Museum. The exhibition reflects processes and influences that Mireya has worked with and experienced lately, both in Iceland and Japan. The exhibition deals with the inner and outer cosmos, inifinity, eternity, recurrence and (inner and outer) circulation.

Þór Vigfússon (f. 1954) lives and works in Djúpavogur. Þór’s work has been exhibited all over the world and he has been a member of the ReykjavÌk Sculpture Association since its foundation. The curator is Sindri Leifsson. Where: Höggmyndagarður Mynhöggvarafélagsins (Nýlendugata 17a, Reykjavík) When: May 30th - September 30th, 2015 Price: Free

The exhibition features both a 2D and a 3D installation by Mireya along with works by the Japanese artists Tomoo Nagaii, who composed an audio piece for the installation, and a video art piece by Higuma Haruo which was done in collaboration with Mireya. The installation is a kind of “meditative space”, wherein exhibition guests are invited into the space to sit or lie down in order to meditate. Also, the Japanese performance artist Kana Nakamura will be participating. Mitsuko Shino, Japan’s ambassador to Iceland will open the exhibition on Saturday and Hlynur Hallsson, the curator of the Akureyri Art Museum, will be giving a speech. Where: Akureyri Art Museum When: Saturday, June 13th - August 16th, 2015 Hours: Tuesdays - Sundays (10:00 - 17:00) Price: Free

CAUTION (We place this caveat here, among the featured art exhibitions, for the benefit of the reader): Please be warned that art is a dangerous thing;

Visions of Women In the Beginning of their Right to Vote in 1915 The exhibition Visions of Women is based on photographs and documents from 1910 - 1920, when women in Iceland were gaining the right to vote. The aim of the exhibition is to give the viewers a feeling for women and their life during this time. Guðrún Sigríður Haraldsdóttir’s multimedia installation Vera:Kven:Vera (Being:Female:Being) will be featured in the exhibition, which employs materials and methods that she has developed in her art practice in recent years. Where: Reykjavík Municipal Archives, Grófarhús 1st floor (Tryggvagata 15) When: June 4th - July 12th Hours: Mondays - Thursdays 10:00 - 19:00, Fridays 11:00 - 18:00, Weekends 13:00 - 17:00 Price: Free www.borgarskjalasafn.is

a perilous thing; and should only be observed with the utmost care and caution. Individuals

ROUGH SEAS

who observe art, worthy art, jeopardize their own ignorance and put at risk that innate

Þröstur Njálsson, an amateur photographer and fisherman, gives viewers a unique insight into life on board Icelandic fishing trawlers in the 21st century, through photographs that could only be captured by a veteran of the seas. The viewer is pulled in to a world unfamiliar to most: one that is rapidly changing with new and advanced ships and automation processes. Rough Seas is Þröstur’s second photography exhibition. It portrays life on board the fishing trawler Ásbjörn RE50. The exhibition is made possible by Þröstur’s employer HB Grandi and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.

conception of themselves which says that

Where: Reykjavík Maritime Museum (Grandagarður 8) When: June 8th - September 20th, 10:00 - 17:00 Price: 1,400 ISK (free for children under 18) www.sjominjasafn.is

animals; more solicitous about nature; and

they occupy a privileged position within the Universe. Often, such individuals begin to feel less like avaricious, self-interested individuals and more like members of a vast, catholic tribe, until, gradually, they become friendlier towards

more troubled by grand social injustices.

Exhibitions

What’s happening

Why in the world would you settle for average?

Snorri Ásmundsson On Tuesday, June 16th, an interesting history walk will be held at the east end of Viðey island where there once was a village that was full of life and activity in the beginning of the 20th Century. At that time there was no proper harbor in Reykjavík; Viðey had the best harbor facilities on Faxaflói Bay. The historian Stefán Pálsson will walk with guests and bring some old stories to life. Tuesdays are longer than other days of the week in Viðey. Two extra trips are added to the schedule at 18:15 and 19:15 and the restaurant at Viðeyjarstofa is open longer. This makes it possible for guests in Viðey to enjoy a lovely dinner at Viðeyjarstofa before the walk.

Snorri Ásmundsson (1966) will perform at Mengi this Saturday, June 13th. Snorri is an artist that often seeks to affect society by public events. He has disturbed the community he lives in for some years with extensive and remarkable performances where he works with social taboos in politics and religion. He has observed the reactions of society, that is, people’s responses when accepted values are turned upside down, e.g. when a powerless individual takes in his hands power that normally is assigned by predetermined rules. Howsoever people react to these grandstand performances, Snorri is first and foremost challenging sociological and religious values. He seeks sharp responses and examines the limits of his fellow citizens as well as his own.

Where: Viðey Island When: Tuesday, June 16th, 19:30 - 21:00 Price: Free www.videy.com

Where: Mengi When: Saturday, June 13th, 21:00 Price: 2,500 ISK www.mengi.net

Magnús Sigurðsson: Athöfn og Yfirskin (Action and Pretext) Athöfn og Yfirskin is Magnús Sigurðsson’s (born 1966) first private exhibition in Iceland for a long time; Magnús has lived in the US for the past years. The exhibition features a video and audio installation that the artist recently did for Hallgrímskirkja, along with landscape drawings. Magnús focuses on a few existential fixtures that are to be found both in nature and society. A few artworks have gained value in man’s search for the exalted – artworks that unite seemingly antagonistic qualities, which are, on the one hand, sublime and overwhelming and, on the other hand, unpretentious and simple. Magnús attempts to dissolve these things into tiny fragments in a search for some kind

SEAWOMEN

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the fishing women of Iceland, past and present In June 2015 Icelanders celebrate the 100-year anniversary of women’s parliamentary right to vote. In the spirit of this occasion the Maritime Museum opened an exhibition on Friday June 5th about Icelandic women at sea, based on research conducted by the anthropologist Dr. Margaret E. Willson.

E N N E M M / S Í A / N M 6 74 7 0

A History Walk to the Village

Dr. Willson’s findings subvert previous ideas about women’s participation at sea in Iceland, which is greater than previously imagined. Through extensive historical and ethnographic research, she discovered that in Iceland women have consistently worked at sea from the mid900s to the present day. This appears to be different from any other group of female fishers about whom a study has been done. Dr. Willson’s research focuses on women who have worked in commercial fishing in Iceland, covering all kinds of fisheries. Her research is based on rich historical material and also on interviews and discussions with almost two hundred Icelandic women who have worked at sea in the last several decades. A presentation of this research through an exhibit at the Reykjavík City Museum, will bring new and exciting perspectives for both Icelanders and for visitors in Iceland. A book on the subject comes out in the fall of 2015.

of nucleus, all the while inquiring about man’s internal and external reality and his attitude towards the divine. Magnús is known mostly for his photographs, video art and installations, in which he references familiar aspects of pop culture, the media and general knowledge. In this exhibition at Hafnarhúsið, Magnús explores the human desire for the exalted, which lies hidden in the everyday. Curator is Markús Þór Andrésson.

Margaret E. Willson graduated with a doctorate from the London School of Economics and she has conducted various anthropological research through the years. She wrote the book Dance Lest We All Fall Down: Breaking Cycles of Poverty in Brazil and Beyond, after living and working in Brazil where she advocated for girl’s education. For the past few years she has taught seminars at the University of Washington regarding fringe societies and gender education.

Where: Hafnarhús (Reykjavík Art Museum) When: Until the 18th of October Hours: Daily from 10 - 17, Thursdays 10 - 18

Where: Reykjavík Maritime Museum When: Ongoing (Opened June 5th) Price: 1,400 ISK (free for children under 18)

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What’s happening

Blue Lagoon

Snowmobile on the top of a glacier

The Golden Circle 6 times daily

South Coast & Waterfalls

Paragliding on the South Coast

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Book your tour now! 24 HOUR BOOKING SERVICE iceland@grayline.is | +354 540 1313 | grayline.is

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Food tips

What’s happening

565 6000 / somi.is

Domino’s Pizza Pizza was invented 500 years before the birth of Christ, which proves that God had his priorities straight: pizza first, the salvation of mankind second. When it comes to pizza in Iceland there is no shortage of options; there is Eldsmiðjan, Pizza Hut, that anonymous pizza place on Hverfisgata, Wilson’s – and many others. But out all of these companies, there is one pizza establishment that I cannot help but to call when I am too hungover to stray from

the comforts of my bedroom: Domino’s Pizza. Perhaps it is because the phone number is easy to remember: 588-12345; or perhaps it is because Domino’s marketing department is more effective than other marketing departments, and has managed to purchase permanent real estate in my subconscious; or perhaps it is because Domino’s Pizza makes a fine pie (perhaps all three). Anyhow, occasionally, when I am gripped by the brutal plague of alcoholic crapulence, I am in the

habit of calling Domino’s Pizza and ordering Offer A (Tilboð A). Offer A is a fine offer. It consists of a large pie, a two liter soda, breadsticks and some sauce to go with – and it is delivered right to your doorstep in a matter of minutes. Thus, if ever you find yourself damming the incipient vomit in your throat after a long night of excessive drinking, Domino’s Pizza will aid you in your recovery (or at least provide some edible solace).

REYKJAVÍK CENTRUM

Elegant bistro menu Service with a smile Cozy atmosphere Great location

Saffran

Eat Out in Iceland.

The first Saffran restaurant opened in 2009 in Glæsibær. Today, it has expanded into a four-linked chain. There are numerous restaurant chains in Iceland – but in a jewelry box of pewter chains – Saffran is one of the few gold ones. It is a gold chain with many nice pendants (dishes). I regularly sling that gold chain over my broad shoulders and when I do – I commonly choose a pizza medallion to go with it (it is possible that I have taken this metaphor too far). What I mean to say is that I usually order pizza when I go to Saffran. Among my favorites pies are Sophia Loren, which comes with garlic oil, cheese, camembert, prosciutto, basil pesto and tomatoes; Milano, which is served with chicken, carmelized onions, dates and mascarpone cheese; and the Parma Pie, which comes with prosciutto, parmesan, pistachios and a veritable mountain of rucola. Last week I visited Saffran, and to no one’s surprise I ordered the Sophia Loren. It did not disappoint. It was a fine pie that was every bit as tantalizing as its namesake.

Primo – Seafood Pasta Par Excellence The Italian restaurant Primo, which is located on Þingholstræti 11 in downtown Reykjavík, offers an especially savory menu. Having been enticed by Primo’s attractive selection of dishes, we visited the restaurant last week and had a taste. After a bout of choice anxiety, we finally ordered the Bruchetta two ways as an appetizer (served with a tomatoees, mozzarella and parma ham) and the Frutti di mare as an entrée (laganelle with lobster, scallops, mussels chili, garlic, lemon and white wine). The pasta was perfectly cooked and the seafood was fresh: which made for an unforgettable meal. For desert, we ordered chocolate fondue & vanilla ice cream. It too was excelllent. All in all, Primo is a full house. If you enjoy real Italian food, a romantic atmosphere and great service – then Primo is definitely for you!

Check out our menu Enjoy Sómi sandwiches and wraps on your travels, Iceland’s favourite take-away! Fresh every day!

www.cafeparis.is

Design

What’s happening

By Day (thermos)

Thufa – Icelandic Wool

Anchor Necklace

Design: Farmers Market

Design: Orri Finn

A beautiful faux fur hand-knitted cap (available in brown, gray and white). Farmers Market is an Icelandic design company and clothing brand, founded in 2005 by a young artist couple – a designer and a musician.

Silver necklace with large silver anchor pendant. Orri Finn is a jewelry brand founded in 2012 by Orri Finnbogason and Helga Gvuðrún Friðriksdóttir. Together, Orri and Helga have designed the Akkeri, Scarab and Flétta collections.

www.icelandicmarket.com

www.kaupstadur.is

Design: Sveinbjörg A sleek 250ml porcelain thermos with a siliconce lid. Sveinbjörg Hallgrímsdóttir is a visual artists and the founder of Sveinbjörg. She has worked as a visual artists and teacher all of her life, and her works are mostly inspired by Icelandic nature. Among Sveinbjörg’s clients are the president of Finland and the king of Sweden. www.hrim.is

PROBABLY THE

WORLD’S SMALLEST WATCH MANUFACTURER

Anatomy of Letters (Poster) Design: Sigríður Rún An A3 poster of the letter S printed on 80g munken cream paper. The poster is signed by Sigríður Rún. Sigríður Rún is a graphic designer and an illustrator who graduated from the Icelandic Academy of the Arts in 2012. Her final project at the Academy, which received considerable attention, was a book about the anatomy of the Icelandic letters with illustrations. www.sparkdesignspace.com

Hangers Design: RAKI DESIGN

Cups cleverly transformed into wall hooks. RAKI design is Ragnheiður Ingunn Ágústsdóttir. Ragnheiður received a diploma from the École des Arts Décoratifs Decos in France in 1991 and a Master’s degree from the Domus Academy school of design in Milan in 1998. RAKI designs cups, hangers, vases and more. www.rakidesign.is

Things to do

What’s happening

The Viking Festival

The world famous clown and humanitarian Patch Adams returns to Iceland for the second time for a lecture at Háskólabíó. Patch Adams became a household name in 1998 when he was portrayed by Robin Williams in a film that bore his name (Patch Adams). Equipped with love, joy and laughter, Patch Adams travels the world, often to war-torn and poverty-stricken communities, in order to ease the suffering and spread his message of peace. A surprise group of well-known Icelandic artists will be opening for Patch. The event is organized by Hugarafl.

The Viking Festival is a celebration of Viking culture and history at the Viking Village in Hafnarfjörður (located 15 minutes from Reykjavik by car). The festival gives a glimpse of what it would have been like in the 1200s, that is, if the inhabitants of that era had been liberated from the downer of smallpox. The Festival celebrates the summer solstice, which was a major event in the Viking calendar. During the festival, the staff of the Viking Village dresses up in period clothing. The festival features Viking wrestling, Viking battle reenactments and displays of marksmanship, as well as traditional music and dancing. Visitors can experience good food and traditional mead, hear folk tales and lectures about Vikings or wander around the lovely market of handcrafted weaponry and jewelry. Finally, visitors can round off the evening by going to the Seaside Inn (Fjörukráin) for some traditional Icelandic food and a shot of Brennivín.

Where: Háskólabíó When: Sunday, June 14th, 19:30 Price: 2,800 – 3,800 ISK www.midi.is

Where: Viking Village, Hafnarfjörður When: Friday, June 12th – Wednesday, June 17th Price: 800 ISK Adults / 500 ISK Children www.fjorukrain.is

How to Become Icelandic in 60 minutes How to Become Icelandic is a 60-minute act performed in English, composed and enacted by actor Bjarni Haukur Þórsson and directed by Sigurður Sigurjónsson. How to Become Icelandic is a mix between an historical drama and a stand-up comedy routine, in which Bjarni attempts to teach the audience how to become Icelandic. The event is described thusly by the organizers: “For 1,100 years Icelanders have been trying to grow as a nation. As of today there are only around 320,000 Icelanders living. Around 500,000 Icelanders are dead and therefore currently cannot help their nation with this task. Since Iceland is the navel of the universe, the world needs more Icelanders. Please help! In How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes, Bjarni Haukur Þórsson

Breiðholt Festival

The following artists are set to perform: Samaris Ben Frost – 6 Guitars (with Valgeir Sigurðsson, Kira Kira, Jofriður + more) Sjón Stelpur Rokka! DFM Company Kids Marching Band Old People’s Choir Gunnar Jónsson Collider Ragnheiður Harpa Leifsdóttir Davíð Örn Halldórsson Where: Various Venues in Breiðholt When: Saturday, June 13th, 13:00 – 21:45 Price: Free www.bedroomcommunity.net

WORTH A VISIT

Stop by the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant and see how they harness the geothermal energy. Experienced guides are on-hand to provide informative presentations backed by multimedia shows about sustainable green energy as a global energy source and the geology of Iceland. Origin of the Geothermal energy – The production process – An illustrated guide to Hellisheiði – The earth core Exclusive collection of minerals and stones. An excellent hiking and outdoor destination - we provide information on hiking around the Hengill area. Enjoy our coffee shop and browse through a selection of educational material in the souvenires corner.

teaches you everything you need to know about being Icelandic, in just one hour. You will learn how to walk, talk and behave like a regular Icelander. Additionally, you will learn why eating sour sheep balls might save your life. The show is much more than a stand-up comedy routine: it is an hilarious blend of incisive and visual observation of the Icelandic human condition, their attitudes, struggles and everyday life. You will laugh and learn and at the end of the show leave the theater feeling 100% Icelandic. Come and see the show. Laugh, learn and be of help. Iceland needs you!”

Open daily from 9:00 – 17:00. We are about 20 minutes drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 towards Hveragerði.

Where: Harpa, Kaldalón When: (see website for details) Price: 4,200 – 4,400 ISK www.tix.is

Free-the-Nipple Day

Bedroom Community is an Icelandic record label/ collective formed in 2006 by Valgeir Sigurðsson, Nico Muhly and Ben Frost. Later, Bedroom Community added Sam Amidon, Daníel Bjarnason, Puzzle Muteson, Paul Corley, Nadia Sirota and James McVinnie to their intimate roster. Bedroom Community is nestled in a suburb named Breiðholt. Breiðholt is steeped in rich cultural diversity and creative output. To celebrate the enormous wealth of culture that has emanated from this area, Bedroom Community will be putting on a free community event called Breiðholt Festival on June 13th.

A GEOTHERMAL ENERGY EXHIBITION

Star Wars Day at Nexus The Icelandic digital fusion and visual mashup artist Odee will be hosting a Star Wars day at Nexus this Saturday, June 13th. This special day will feature the likes of Darth Vader, Boba Fett and a Stormtrooper, so as to provide excellent photo opportunities for guests. Also, the legendary Brian Muir, the sculptor who created Darth Vader and designed the Stormtrooper costume, among other things, will be signing autographs and memoribilia (3,000 ISK for an autograph). Brian Muir has also worked as a set designer and costume designer for many of the most famous movies in film history. He has worked on a number of James Bond films, Indiana Jones, as welll as many of the new Marvel and Disney films – and yes, of course, Star Wars. Brian Muir will also be selling his limited edition book In the Shadow of Vader (4,000 ISK for an autographed copy). Where: Nexus (Nóatún 17) When: Saturday, June 13th, 12:00 - 16:00

This Saturday, June 13th, a Free-the-Nipple Day will be held at Austurvöllur in downtown Reykjavík. The bands EVOKA, Babies, Konur rokka (Women Rock) and others will be performing, and there will also be a few speeches. Guests will receive free candy floss and they will also be afforded the opportunity of purchasing nipple t-shirts designed by Sunna Ben. The proceeds from the t-shirt sales will go towards the event itself: the renting of a sound system, stage, etc. Everyone is invited. The purpose of the event is to nullify that taboo that states that women cannot be topless in public. A statement by the organizers reads: “we have long grown tired of the fact that authority over our own bodies has been placed in the hands of someone else and we demand that this authority be returned to us. I shouldn’t have to conceal parts of my body just because I’m a woman (there are probably a lot of men that have bigger boobs than I do) “. After the day’s program, guests are invited to the Laugardalur swimming pool and then there will be a nipple party at Húrra later that evening, with Happy Hour lasting until midnight. The organizers would like to add that no one is obliged to go topless during the event.The message that they wish to send is that EVERYONE is free to do what they will with their own body. Where: Austurvöllur When: Saturday, June 13th, 13:00 - 18:00 Price: Free

Hönnun: adalheiduro@simnet.is

Patch Adams (Lecture)

What’s happening

More information: www.orkusyn.is Tel + 354 412 5800 e-mail: orkusyn@orkusyn.is Gps 64°02”248’- 21°24”079´

Ske

What’s happening

Gelato On the Black-Death Craze Like all things, the Black Death arrived in Iceland late, or a full 50 years after it had gained popularity on the European mainland. The first to introduce it to the Icelandic people was Einar Herjólfsson, who carried it with him from England in 1402. Eager to bring his nation up to date with the fashions of Europe, Einar began enthusiastically spreading the disease among his countrymen, beginning with Óli Svarthöfðason – who is remembered today as a pioneer and a trendsetter. After having acquainted Óli with the vogue it caught on quickly and was all the rage; it is said that entire communities succumbed, often with the exception of one or two individuals, who were henceforth looked upon suspiciously and privately condemned as philistines. Scholars estimate that one third of the entire population

eventually gave in to the Black Death craze, with many bequeathing their properties to the church for one of two reasons: one, in gratitude for affording them a rare taste of cosmopolitanism; two, for furnishing them with a legitimate reason to depart from the island indefinitely. In Europe, detractors of the Black Death craze invariably blamed its dissemination on the Jews – and frequently burned them alive – despite the fact that they seemed to take little interest in it. The upshot of this epidemic in Iceland was that the cost of rent was considerably reduced. This fact has lead many modern economists to suggest Black Death as a useful expedient of rent control. Given the current housing market, I think that this is not a bad idea entirely.

Happy Hour!

You know what time it is Prikið, Bankastræti 12

All weekdays from 16:00 - 20:00 Beer - 500 ISK

Vegamót, Vegamótastígur 4

Thursday till Saturday from 22:00 - 01:00 Beer - 750 ISK Wine - 750 ISK

Stofan Café, Aðalstræti 7 All days from 17:00 - 20:00 Beer - 750 ISK Wine - 950 ISK

Kaldi Bar, Laugavegur 20B All days from 16:00- 19:00 Beer - 650 ISK

Hlemmur Square, Laugavegur 105 All days from 17:00 - 21:00 Beer - 600 ISK Wine - 600 ISK

Slippbarinn, Mýrargata 2 All days from 15:00 - 18:00 Beer - 500 ISK Wine - 500 ISK

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.

Smurstöðin Restaurant, Austurbakki 2 All days from 16:00 - 18:00 Beer - 500 ISK Wine - 600 ISK

Barber Bar, Laugavegur 66-68 All days from 16:00 - 19:00 Beer - 650 ISK Wine - 650 ISK

Loftið, Austurstræti 9

All days from 16:00 - 23:00 2 for 1

Fashion

What’s happening

Sindri Jensson

What’s happening

Hildur Ragnarsdóttir

Húrra Reykjavík

Einvera

Earrings The Simplicity of Scandinavian Design Scandinavian design is becoming ever more noticeable in the fashion world, with Denmark and Sweden leading the way. Danish and Swedish brands have become popular all over the world. If one were to list all of the successful Scandinavian brands then one would end up with a long list indeed. Brands that come to mind are Norse Projects, Han Kjobenhavn, Wood Wood and LibertineLibertine from Denmark, and Acne, Tiger of Sweden, Nudie Jeans and Our Legacy from Sweden. What is it exactly that makes Scandinavian clothing so special and so appealing? The answer is simple: simplicity of design, quality and durability. Clothing from these brands is categorized as “street” clothing, however, given that this clothing is pure in its style and well made, it is equally suitable for work as for the nightlife. It is the simplicity of Scandinavian design that makes it beautiful. It is minimalistic and practical: people want to look good

whether at work or in the club. This simplistic style can, in some respects, be traced back to designers like Poul Henningsen & Børge Mogensen, who designed furniture. However, the aim and the vision is the same: to create simple, stylistically pure products that are durable. Price, on the other hand, is entirely subjective. Scandinavian design is not expensive. It would probably be categorized as being “moderately” expensive. Many Scandinavian designers have said that they want to create wellmade products that can be worn by everyone: blue-collar workers and office folk alike. The propagation of this simplistic design, which, in part, is based on sharp lines, fine cuts and strong colors, can be seen among other less expensive brands like H&M, Other Stories and Cos. Therefore, one can say that Scandinavian design is quite popular these days and its popularity has yet to reach its zenith.

Beautiful, well-chosen accessories can often perfect an outfit. This summer, various types of earrings are popular, and like so many accessories they are influenced by some of the ongoing trends. Popular trends this year include the “1970s”, in which long, multi-colored, noticeably retro earrings are fashionable. Roberto Cavalli’s and Louis Vuitton’s summer collections both feature earrings of this kind. The safety pin seems to be making a comeback as well, referring back to the good ol’ punk-rock era. Armani exhibited

its version of the safety-pin earring in its summer collection. Most fashion houses, however, have been influenced by the minimalist style, and so they offer a smaller, daintier version of the safety pin. “Mixing and matching” is also a popular trend when it comes to earrings, in which different styles of earrings are mixed together, whether gold, silver and rose gold are mixed together; or long, simple earrings are mixed with smaller hoops: Everything is allowed. The ear-cuff is also a popular addition to this trend, seeing as not everyone is prepared to pierce their ears.

Svarfadur Valley is Iceland’s most beautiful place, according to its people, the Svarfdaelings. A few years ago, all sheep in the valley were quarantined and destroyed because of scrapie, a fatal and infectious disease. That’s when they founded the Herding Society, a venerable club of shepherds, car mechanics, carpenters, schoolteachers and plumbers. They are also poets and singers and festive men. And they continue to herd every year, despite the fact that there is not a single sheep left in the valley. The Svarfadur Valley Herding Society: Skál fyrir þér! Léttöl

29 What’s happening

Reykjavik Tattoo convention Gamla Bíó june 5th-7th

What’s happening

Cinema

What’s happening

MAD MAX: FURY ROAD

HRÚTAR

JURASSIC WORLD

CHILD 44

FAST & FURIOUS 7

LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | ÁLFABAKKI KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK

SMÁRABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI

FRUMSÝND 12. JÚNÍ

ÁLFABAKKI

SMÁRABÍÓ

8,8

6,4

8,2

23%

7,7

82%

8,6

98%

ICELANDIC ARTSCAPES

THE WATER DIVINER PITCH PERFECT 2 SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI

7,3

ÁLFABAKKI | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL

7,3

61%

68%

GOOD KILL AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON ÁLFABAKKI | KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK

8,0

ÁLFABAKKI | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK

6,3

74%

PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 SMÁRABÍÓ

6,4

23%

The artist of Nature Tolli grew up in Reykjavík and rural Iceland, surrounded by cold seas, amidst

74%

broad glacier valleys and stern mountains. An Icelander’s relationship with Nature

Tolli Art Gallery is located at the harbour area in the old part of Reykjavík (next to Farmers Market) and there you can find Tolli´s paintings, available in many sizes. All paintings, especially the larger ones are readily sent in special packages to customers worldwide, arranged by the gallery.

is often primal, brutal and grave. Yet Tolli’s appreciation of his country is also subtle and sensitive, portrayed by fleeting textures. He employs oil colours in bold shades, but with the eider-light touch of a water colourist. The images Tolli portrays could be ancient or modern, but they remain timeless, entangled in the powerful authenticity of the artist´s broad vision. “What makes my country so spell-binding,” explains the artist, “is not simply the

Whales of Iceland

Tolli art gallerí Old harbour Harpa

landscape forms, extraordinary though they are. It is the Arctic light.” Light is life and in Tolli’s world it becomes dynamic and daring, dramatic and eternal.

Tjörnin

A SECOND CHANCE HÁSKÓLABÍÓ

BAKK

7,1

45%

City Hall

HOT PURSUIT

SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI

KRINGLUBÍÓ

4,8

SPOOKS: THE GREATER GOOD SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI

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59%

CITIZENFOUR Visit us and enjoy good art in our comfortable and elegant gallery. You are most welcome!

BÍÓ PARADÍS

8,2

98%

Art reproduction and posters We also offer fine reprints and posters in convenient hard-case tubes that fits in most suitcases.

Hólmaslóð 2 . 107 Reykjavík . tolli@tolli.is

What’s happening

Programme for 17th of June 2015 celebrations in Reykjavík The Icelandic Independence Day celebrations in Reykjavík 2015 will take place in the city centre from 10 o´clock in morning untill 10. p.m. The programme will include family oriented entertainment, concerts, outdoor play sets, variety shows and street happenings. 10:00 Chiming of all church bells in Reykjavík 10:15 Mass in Domkirkjan Cathedral Agnes M. Sigurðardóttir, Bishop of Iceland preaches and celebrants are the reverends Hjálmar Jónsson and Valgeir Ástráðsson The Dómkirkja choir sings. Conductor: Kári Þormar. Soloist: Hildigunnur Einarsdóttir 11:10 The Icelandic government´s National Day ceremony at Austurvöllur The choir Mótettukór Hallgrímskirkju sings: Yfir voru ættarlandi. Conductor: Hörður Áskelsson The President of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, lays a wreath of flowers at the Jón Sigurðsson monument The choir Mótettukór Hallgrímskirkju sings the National Anthem Address by the Prime Minister, Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson The Graduale Choir of Langholtskirkja sings: Hver á sér fegra föðurland. Conductor: Jón Stefánsson Fjallkona (The Lady of the Mountain) recites a poem The Workers Brass Band plays: Ég vil elska mitt land. Conductor: Kári Húnfjörð Einarsson The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service broadcasts the ceremony on radio and television 11:50 Parade from Austurvöllur to the Suðurgata Cemetery Chairman of the City Council, Sóley Tómasdóttir lays a wreath of flowers on the grave of Jón Sigurðsson The Reykjavík Brass Band plays The Scouts Honour Guard will stand to attention 12:15-16:00 Antic cars, cruise and show The Antique Automobile Club of Iceland, show by Harpa Concert Hall Kruser Car Club, show by the lake. The Kruser Band plays at 15:00 13:00 Parades A parade from Hlemmur, down Laugavegur: The Reykjavík Brass Band, Kampen Janitsjarorkester and the Street Theatre participate

A parade from Hagatorg to Hljómskálagarður: The Brass Band Svanur plays 13:00-17:00 Hljómskálagarður (Park by the lake) Skátaland outdoor play sets and games (free of charge) Entertainment: 13:30 Dan Marques – The Funnykito Show 14:10 Toti the clown 14:30 Mama Lou strong woman 15:00 A family dance with the band Fjörkarlar 15:40 A Chinese kung fu performance 16:00 Ármann Gymnastic Club 16:00 Reykjavik Parachuting Club 16:15 Reykjavik Aikido Club 16:35 The Fencing Club of Reykjavík 13:30 Children and family entertainment at Arnarhóll 13:30 Söngvaborg, childrens musical theatre 13:40 Pippi Longstocking 14:05 Lazytown 14:25 Singer Agla Briet 14:35 JSB Dance School 14:40 Birna Björns Dance School 14:45 Rebel Dance Studio 15:10 Dancers Hrafnhildur and Beata 15:15 Reykjavik Rocker´s from Kram húsið 15:20 Brynja Péturs´ Dancers 15:25 World Class Dance Studio 15:40 A family dance with the band Sunnyside Road 16:20 Gunni and Felix 16:45 Singer María Ólafsdóttir Characters from Söngvaborg, the childrens musical theatre, will be MC´s in this programme and acrobats from The Icelandic Circus will perform 13:30 Programme in City Hall 13:30 Songs and poems of Icelandic women. A programme in celebra tion of the 100th anniversary of women´s right to vote 14:30 Credo – Dallas´ Ecumenial Mixed Choir 15:00 Male choir Esja 15:30 Albert Melkonyan and Tatyana Iskandaryan from Armenia play the duduku and read poems 16:00 Tangoadventure, tango shows and ball 13:30-17:00 Children and family entertainment at Ingólfstorg The Icelandic Circus with roving characters, circus workshop and circus shows at 14:15, 15:30 and 16:30

13:30 and 14:30 Brúðubíllinn in Hallargarður A puppet show 13:30-18:00 The Creative Groups of Hitt Húsið The Street Theatre and the band Ventus Brass with the show Hver á sér fegra föðurland? Reginfirra makes stories and drawings in City Hall Dance group Dansráðuneytið has a pool party in the pond by City Hall Staria writes music to the texts of Megas in Mæðragarðurinn 13:30 17th of June sailing competition Brokey’s sailing competition off the shore from Sæbraut 13:45 Eldborg in Harpa 13:45 Brass Band Kampen Janitsjaro rkester from Norway 14:00 A singalong with Garðar Cortes and the Opera Choir 14:30 Three Singing Sisters 15:00 Songs of Icelandic women. A programme in celebration of the 100th anniversary of women´s right to vote 15:30 Intermission 16:00 Rockband Sniglabandið 14:00 Entertainment in Harpa Smurstöðin – ground floor 14:00 Musycle 14:20 Náttsól 14:40 Ventus Brass 16:00 Jay and his seven jugglers 16:20 Duo Stemma 16:45 Aurora Jazz Band 17:15 Alda Dís 17:30 Skuggamyndir frá Býsans North Pier – ground floor 15:00 Dan Marques - The Funnykito Show 15:30 Jón Víðis the magician 15:50 Mama Lou strong woman Harpacorner – 2nd floor 15:15 Harpa International Music Academy 15:30 Reykjavík Midsummer Music 16:00 Credo – Dallas´ Ecumenial Mixed Choir Maximouse greets the children and gives out vindmills at 3 and 4 o´clock and outside of Harpa is an antique car show and free Tuktuk rides 14:00 Concert in Austurvöllur 14:00 Jay and his seven jugglers 14:20 Unnur Sara 14:50 Rampa Sakornram 15:00 Hinemoa 15:20 Bergmál 15:30 Musycle

15:50 16:00 16:20 16:25 16:30 16:50 17:10 17:40

Saga Matthildur Náttsól Kristín Sesselja Equal Rights Rap Una Stef Alan Jones JT/Bruno Mars Show Complete Vocal Studio Open mike and live caraoke

14:00-17:00 Open air chess set in Lækjargata Chess tournament 14:00-16:00 Sun watching in Austurvöllur The Astrological website studies the sun 14:00 Strength competition by the City Hall Yoke Race at Vonarstræti in the competition The Strongest Man in Iceland 16:00 Prayer time in Hallgrímskirkja National Day prayer time with the reverend Sigurður Árni Þórðarson and organist Hörður Áskelsson

17:00 Ball in Ingólfstorg 17:00 Bollywood dance group from Kramhúsið 17:10 Tanya and the Zumba Divas 17:30 Come and Dance Company invites you to a ball 20:00 Accordion Ball in the City Hall Accordion Club of Reykjavík The celebration area is Kvosin, including Austurvöllur, Kirkjustræti, Templarasund, Ingólfstorg, Arnarhóll, Tjarnargarður and Reykjavík Harbour. Car traffic in this area will be limited. The supervision of the Independence Day programme is in the hands of the Independence Committee of the Sport and Youth Council of Reykjavík. Information: 411 5502 or 17juni@reykjavik.is.

17:00 Concert at Arnarhóll 17:00 Ellen Kristjáns and her daughters 17:25 Þórunn Antonía 17:50 Heimilistónar 18:20 Amabadama 18:50 Bee Bee and the Bluebirds 19:15 Rythmatik 19:35 Bellatrix / Kolrassa krókríðandi 20:00 Reykjavíkurdætur

Bus routes on the 17th of June to and from the city centre of Reykjavik

Hverfisgata and Lækjargata are closed to all bus traffic The buses run as on Saturdays 9:00 - 21:00 but efter that as usual