1 What’s happening
Verslunarmannahelgin
#12
Ske.is
Charlie Marlowe’s travel journal from last weekend, featuring Hemingway, sheep and Helfoss.
On City Hall A brief, ironic discourse on City Hall, and how it relates to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ
07.08 2015—13.08 2015
Your free copy Your guide to what’s going on in iceland
“It’s been crazy for about 10 years.” – Páll Óskar
Ske
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What’s happening
Verslunarmannahelgin A Travel Journal
The Pentatonic Scale of Happiness I have a theory about Happiness, namely that it is a state that can be most easily attained by a five-step subterfuge – by “playing” the following five “notes” in relatively quick succession. Pentatonic scale – a musical scale consisting of five notes A man should begin each day on the keynote of gratitude: Once the digital rooster crows (his alarm clock), man should seize it by the neck and raise it triumphantly above his head, saying things like, “Bravo! I exist!” or, “Praise, Jebus! ‘tis another day!”. He should then take a moment to appreciate the fact that he is alive; that he is healthy; and that the geography of his face is not accentuated by a mountainous, aquiline nose – and if the geography of his face is accentuated by a mountainous, aquiline nose, then he should take comfort in some other thing for which he is grateful: perhaps in the fact that he is not currently being probed anally by a band of curious extra-terrestrials. The second note on the pentatonic scale of happiness (or, the PSH for short) is that of healthful eating: A man should follow his moment of gratitude with the consumption of unappetizing but salubrious food. I, personally, honor this note with a spoonful of cod-liver oil (which is disgusting); a half a glass of an anti-cancer cocktail concocted by my grandfather (which is equally disgusting); and two to four raw eggs (also disgusting). This act informs my body that I am willing to risk sudden regurgitation for the sake of its wellness – and my body always rewards me for my suffering. The third note on the PSH is that of vigorous exercise (and it follows logically from the preceding note): A man should work up an honest sweat while running or lifting or boxing (but not golfing). Why? Because exercise is a mild form of self-induced torture – and to suffer through a moderate spell of self-induced torture inevitably engenders a feeling of contentment afterwards; it is the dark misery by which we judge our radiant happiness; the low point that defines our highs; the … well, you understand: Moving on. The fourth note on the PSH consists of actual notes, that is to say, of music: A man should celebrate his sweat by filling his apartment with a series of feel-good songs in order to deceive his subconscious into happiness. Songs like Bill Withers’ Lovely Day, Pharrell Williams’ Happy, Michael Kiwanuka’s Bones and Nina Simone’s I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free all serve to move one further along in the direction of that elusive state of mind. Lastly, the fifth and final note of the PSH is that of meaningful work: A man should propel himself headlong into his work – the kind of work which gives his life meaning and joy. I find my meaning and my joy in writing literature. You, however, may find existential fulfillment in the collection and organization of colorful seashells. But I am not one to judge … Having done all this (practiced gratitude, eaten well, exercised, listened to good music and found meaning in one’s own work), I have found that it is nearly impossible not to experience a touch of happiness. Anyhow, leaf through the pages of our humble magazine, and find happiness with or without the Pentatonic Scale of Happiness. #OhHappyDay #WhenJebusWashed
Ske Editors: ritstjorn@ske.is Advertisement: auglysingar@ske. is Interview & Editorial: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Inter viewee: Páll Óskar Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson Streets of Reykjavík: Birta Rán Printing: Ísafoldarprentsmiðja Layout: Greta Þorkelsdóttir Design: Hlynur Ingólfsson, Gebo ehf.
Verslunarmannahelgin
Run and Culture
Last weekend marked the great urban exodus referred to as Verslunarmannahelgin in my native tongue (the bank holiday weekend). Every first weekend of August, Icelanders depart from the capital area en masse and invade the smaller towns of their country with large arsenals of alcohol and grill food. They gather together in large drunken droves in order to sing songs, to grill hotdogs and to dance. But every year I refuse to be enlisted; I have a congenital intolerance to large crowds of boisterous Icelanders and have made a habit of spending Verslunarmannahelgin alone, with my fiancé (henceforth GUNS), in my parents’ cottage, in southeast Iceland.
Thinking these thoughts, I roused GUNS and we went outside for a run. We decorated our bloated bodies with layers of spandex and jogged through the countryside, past the horses, the sheep and the birds, like a pair of lost time travelers searching for their ship. Upon our return to the cottage, some 30 minutes later, we collapsed onto the patio and attempted to expedite our convalescence with two beers. While GUNS communed with the sun for the sake of her tan, I returned indoors for some culture. I opened Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms and was lulled to sleep by old Papa’s short, declarative sentences. It was delightful.
A Mixtape for the Silence Every time that we embark upon the pilgrimage (for it is a pilgrimage, a holy and sacred thing), I make sure to concoct a mixtape for our journey. GUNS and I have been together for five years and we no longer have anything to talk about. We have long since exhausted our store of humorous anecdotes and biographical reminiscences. Music helps us kill the silence. We sit and listen and stare out the window and whenever a tune tapers into tense soundlessness we make insightful comments about the landscape and the fauna. She says things like, “that mountain is beautiful,” and I reply by saying things like, “that cow looks like its suffering from Cotard’s syndrome”.
Off We Go And so, last Friday, as thousands of eager Icelanders traveled towards Ísafjörður, Vestmannaeyjar and Akureyri, we made our way east. We drove through Reykjavík, past Heiðmörk, over heiðin, through Hveragerði, before stopping briefly at Selfoss. If you are unfamilliar with Selfoss then I shall enlighten you. Selfoss is a small town in southeast Iceland that used to be famous for being the wellspring of hnakkar (napes in English): a pitiable species of individuals who invested immoderately in their tans and who were in the habit of buying their clothes two sizes too small in order to exaggerate the proportions of their physiques. Even though their species has all but died out (been replaced with hipsters), I sped through that unpleasant hellscape like a racing horse with blinders and landed at the cottage some time before midnight. Having unloaded our cargo from the vehicle, GUNS and I climbed into bed and made love: she made love to a couple of strands of licorice – while I eagerly penetrated a sizeable bag of Doritos. Shortly thereafter, we were asleep.
The Countryside On Saturday, as thousands of hungover Icelanders wormed their way out of their tents, I began the day by savoring the countryside. I enjoy the countryside – but mainly because it has become so urban. I enjoy sitting in my family’s cottage, knowing that just outside its walls – beyond the expansive flat screen – there is a vista of great natural beauty; I like knowing that when my eyes tire of the smartphone screen – I can rest them on a mountain; and I relish the thought that if my ears grow weary of my noise-cancelling headphones – I can replenish them with the songs of wild birds. I suppose therefore that the countryside is a kind of naturally occurring screensaver.
Helfoss Shortly after noon, my sister called and announced that she and my brother would be joining us for dinner. Taking stock of the refrigerator, it became apparent that we would have to return to Selfoss for some food. And so we did. We returned to Helfoss. There has never been a mass shooting in Iceland. Not once has an Icelander found an outlet for his frustration by serial killing his compatriots. But I am convinced that when that first shooting takes place in Iceland – it will take place during Verslunarmannahelgin, at Selfoss, in Bónus. Someday, some down-on-hisluck native will wander into Bónus with a handgun. He will not enter the establishment with the intention of violence, but will be propelled off the edge of his wits by the compactness of his fellow countrymen; by the eye-piercing fluorescent lights; by the incessant beeping of the cash register; and by the general atmosphere of impatience and intolerance. I suffered half an hour at that diabolical grocery store before returning to the cottage to grill. I grilled some lamb chops and some sweet potatoes while GUNS whipped up a bowl of salad. We received our guests in style. It was a pleasant evening of food, beer and music. I passed out on the sofa at around midnight.
Incongruous Puzzle Pieces On Sunday, as thousands of world-weary Icelanders stirred to the sound of vomit, I awoke to the sound of a rooster: a rooster that crowed from across the lake and announced that it was time to rise. I did not agree with the rooster. But it did not matter. He had managed to stir GUNS and she nudged me out of bed for a run. Once again we adorned ourselves in spandex uniforms, and we ran past the horses, the sheep and the birds like a pair of incongruous puzzle pieces forced onto a rural landscape by a stubborn child. When we returned to the cottage, some 30 minutes later, we collapsed onto the patio and wheezed. I crawled towards the shower.
Idle Inconsequence During our final full day at the cottage, nothing transpired worthy of literature. It was an afternoon and evening of idle inconsequence. I had hoped that something dramatic would occur at the cottage for the benefit of this article. But I had no such luck. This year, Verslunarmannahelgin was quiet, idle and enjoyable. I would not have traded it for a hillside of drunken teenagers. Charlie Marlowe
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Music
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Low Roar
Pikknikk Concert Series – Singimar This Sunday, August 9th, Singimar will perform at the Nordic House for the 2015 Pikknikk concert series. Singimar is a newly formed duet consisting of pianist Ingi Bjarni Skúlason and contrabassist Sigmar Þór Matthíasson. For many years the two musiciansv have collaborated on various projects, including the jazz/folk band Silfurberg and the pop band Dægurflugurnar. In the summer of 2013, Ingi Bjarni and Sigmar Þór performed for the first time as Singimar. Singimar explores the undiscovered sides of the duet genre with consequent freedom and beauty. To Singimar, no music is alien. Singimar plays everything from Swedish folk music to the most dangerous jazz – and everything in between. The emphasis is, however, always on improvisation. The two collaborators possess a large catalogue of music: Icelandic, foreign, pop, rock and jazz. Given that Sigmar and Ingi live on either side of the Atlantic in winter, it is obvious that this concert will be a rare treat. They plan on spending their time in Iceland together wisely and hope to perform as much as possible. A special guest will be performing alongside of Singimar this Sunday: Jóhanna Elísa Skúladóttir, Ingi Bjarni’s sister.
The boys in Low Roar have been doing good things lately. This Saturday they will be performing at Húrra. Low Roar was founded in 2011 by bay area native Ryan Karazija (formerly of Audrye Sessions). Ryan moved to Iceland in 2010. He wrote and recorded Low Roar’s eponymous debut album shortly thereafter. Where: Húrra When: Saturday, August 8th, 21:00 Price: 1,500 ISK
Úlfur Hansson
Where: Nordic House When: Sunday, August 9th, 15:00 Price: Free www.nordichouse.is
For the past decade, Úlfur Hansson (formerly known as Klive) has been creating his own sounds and he has weaved them together into two solo albums, Sweaty Psalms from 2008 and White Mountain from 2013. This Friday, Úlfur will be performing new material at Mengi this Friday. Úlfur Hansson graduated from the electronic music department at Mills College last spring. Where: Mengi (Óðinsgata 2) When: Friday, August 7th, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK www.mengi.net
Lára Rúnars Lára Rúnars released her fifth album Þel last spring. Þel is both dreamy and adventurous. It is Lára’s first album that is sung entirely in Icelandic. Three songs from the album have already reached Rás 2’s singles chart. Lára has not performed in Reykjavík since her release concert at Fríkirkjan last May. Next Tuesday, August 11th, Lára and her band will be performing at Húrra, with a catalogue of newly released material along with some older songs as well. Musicians performing alongside of Lára: Arnar Þór Gíslason, drums; Birkir Rafn Gíslason, guitar; Guðni Finnsson, bass; Þorbjörn Sigurðsson, keyboard; Rósa Guðrún Sveinsdóttir, horns and vocals; Valdimar Guðmundsson, bassoon and vocals; Ingibjörg Rúnars trumpet
The annual gay pride party at Kiki will be held this Saturday – and it will be pure joy! DJ Víðir & Dýrið will be spinning records in order to ensure that all of the world’s joy can materialize into provocative dance.
Where: Húrra When: Tuesday, August 11th, 21:00 Price: 1,500 ISK www.lararunars.com
Where: Kiki – Queer Bar When: Saturday, August 8th, 21:00 Price: Free
Kiki Pride Party RVK Soundsystem #56 RVK Soundsystem is a group of six DJs (Gnúsi Yones (Amaba Dama), DJ Elvar, DJ Kári, Kalli Youze, Arnljótur and Teitur (Ojba Rasta) that aims to promote reggae in Iceland. Every month, RVK Soundsystem hosts a reggae, dub and dancehall event. The 56th RVK Soundsystem event will be held in Paloma this Saturday. Where: Paloma (Naustin) When: Saturday, August 8th, 23:55 Price: Free
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Music
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My Brother is Pale – Fields / Extreme Chill Festival 2015
I Forgot
“This will be a mysterious journey through an electronic landscape.”
Fields / I Forgot is My Brother is Pale’s first single and will be featured on the band’s debut album Battery Low. The single was released on July 30th alongside of a music video. A month later, or September 1st, the album will be released. The album will not only feature the original mix of the song Fields / I Forgot, but a remix by the talented Tonik as well. The album will be released digitally on all of the notable online music sites.
The Icelandic music festival Extreme Chill (Undir Jökli) will be held this weekend (August 7th – August 9th) in Hellissandur, by the roots of Snæfellsjökull. Extreme Chill’s five-year anniversary was celebrated in Berlin last summer, making this the sixth annual Extreme Chill festival. This year’s program is impressive, featuring musicians like Biosphere, Hilmar Örn Hilmarsson, Steindór Andersen, Mixmaster Morris, Studnitzky, Stereo Hypnosis, DJ Flugvél og Geimskip, Jónas Sen, Tonik Ensemble, Futuregrapher, Ruxpin, Skurken, Jóhann Eiríksson among others. A limited number of tickets will be sold and a festival pass costs a meager 7,900 ISK. Last year, festival passes sold out quickly. We therefore encourage our readers to secure a festival pass early. The organizers of Extreme Chill recommend that guests stay at the Hellissandur camping area, which is located in the beautiful Sandahraun lava field. The camping area features a service center with a bathroom and showers, and it is surrounded by beautiful walking paths and a charming beach. They say that the Breiðarfjörður sunset as seen from Sandahraun is incomparable. Also, the Snæfellsjökull National Park is just around the corner.
Úsland V Úsland Records is an Icelandic record label owned by the band The Heavy Experience. Since October 2012, the label has been releasing a series of free improvisational recordings. Currently, over thirty artists from five countries have performed on the label’s seven releases. Nothing was rehearsed. Nothing was decided in advance. There were no instructions. Nothing. The musicians were assembled into the studio and a green light was given. The resulting music was then released, untouched, by Úsland. The musicians, both trained veterans and newbies, span the entire musical spectrum. Together they danced an impromptu tango with instruments – and for just over an hour – the makeshift band performed together for the first time. This Saturday, the musicians from Úsla’s fifth album will be improvising together at Mengi. Musicians: Albert Finnbogason; Ási Þórðarson; Höskuldur Eiríksson; Pétur Ben Where: Mengi (Óðinsgata 2) When: Saturday, August 8th, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK
Where: Hellissandur, Snæfellsjökull When: Friday, August 7th – Sunday, August 9th Price: 7,900 (day pass 4,200 ISK) www.midi.is
The Icelandic Chamber Music Festival Mosi Musik, Vaginaboys & Logi Pedro This Saturday, Prikið will be ablaze with DJS, dames and dance music. Mosi Musik will be opening the concert and warming up for the occult Vaginaboys. Vaginaboys will in turn be spinning records and warming up for the one and only Logi Pedro Pilatus – who will keep the party going until the wee hours of the night. Where: Prikið When: Saturday, August 8th, 21:00-04:30 Price: Free
The Icelandic Chamber Music Festival will be held in Salurinn in Kópavogur between August 6th and August 12th. The festival is the project of young music students, its aim being to provide young musicians with a venue to express themselves musically. The festival will feature a jam-packed program of workshops and concerts. Check it out at musicfest.is. Where: Salurinn in Kópavogur When: Thursday, August 6th – Wednesday, August 12th, 20:00 Price: 9,000 ISK (festival pass) www.midi.is
Steed Lord & Duo-Raw at Reykjavík Pride Dance 2015 The legendary electronic band Steed Lord will be performing at the Reykjavík Pride Dance at Iðnó alongside of the Swedish Duo-Raw. Steed Lord is an Icelandic musical group known for its energetic live performances. Duo-Raw consists of Andreas Kiss Nilsson and Ronny Willberg Johannsson and has been described as a “weird combination of Kylie Minogue, Robyn and Marilyn Manson.” Where: Iðnó (Vonarstræti 3) When: Saturday, August 8th, 23:00-03:30 Price: 2,500 ISK (3,500 ISK at the door) www.hinsegindagar.is
In our souvenir shop you will find Icelandic design inspired by the Northern Lights Designs by: Dimmblá Stál í stál - Jens Volcap Olason paintings Gingó hönnun Svandís Kandís and more Free coffee & tea at our store
Maritime museum CCP
Hotel Marina
The Northern Light Center
Visit us and experience our multimedia exhibition It's only a ten-minute walk from the city center
The old harbour Harpan Music hall Reykjavík Art museum Kolaportið fleemarket
www.aurorareykjavik.is
Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík Open every day from 09:00 - 21:00
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“So long as I get eight hours of sleep and I eat well, I manage.”
It would be no exaggeration to say that Páll Óskar (Paul Oscar) is one of Iceland’s brightest pop stars – and has been one of Iceland’s brightest pop stars for some time. His songs are winged creatures, which, as soon as they’re released – begin to ascend the charts. He is always performing in front of full houses, packed squares, populous parades, thronged towns, swarming cities, filled fjords and teeming valleys. Not too long ago, Páll Óskar composed the song “Líttu upp í ljós”, and released it for free on the internet. Last spring, he did the same thing for his song “Ást sem endist”, which has been very popular ever since. Besides being a talented composer of songs, Páll is also known for his impressive work ethic – especially in August – when his industry reaches an annual high, with the advent of Verslunarmannahelgin (Iceland’s equivalent to the bank holiday weekend) and Gay Pride. SKE contacted Páll a few days ago, and despite the fact that he was busy zig-zagging across the countryside with a malfunctioning cell phone, he set aside some time in order to discuss work, the internet, Gay Pride and Nasa.
SKE: You seem quite busy. Is it always like this? Páll Óskar: It’s been crazy for about 10 years. The first two weeks in August are always busy, with Verslunarmannahelgin and Gay Pride. This is high season for me. During Verslunarmannahelgin I performed for almost four days straight, from Thursday till Sunday. Since then I’ve been preparing the truck (Palli’s float) for the Gay Pride parade. The week leading up to the parade is dedicated entirely to that endeavor. I try to glue together my days as best I can. So long as I get eight hours of sleep and I eat well, I manage. After 10 years, it’s like my body knows what’s coming and adapts; it’s kind of like long-distance running. And Verslunarmannahelgin is not only performing at dances and parties in the evenings – I’m also doing children’s concerts during the day, and then there are late-night concerts at squares or on hillsides until the early morning.
Icelandic word signifying an intimate type of conversation about serious and personal things). So I asked myself why we didn’t simply bring all of the equipment outdoors, and last year we did and set an attendance record. This year, we were getting everything ready when the weather forecast looked really bleak. It was supposed to be rainy and it looked as if people wouldn’t be able to stand for the wind. So we decided to move the concert indoors, to the Vestmannaeyjar arena, and we did. We lugged all the equipment inside. At 10:30, I was standing on the stage inside the arena and the doors were set to open at 11 – but the forecast was all wrong. The weather was calm and warm and the sky was a radiant orange. I thought to myself, this concert is going to be a flop. No one in their right mind is going to go indoors in this weather. At 11 the first guests from Herjólfur (a passenger ship that makes regular trips to Vestmannaeyjar) burst through the doors. Some kids from Reykjavík, I think. A quarter past 11 the dancefloor was packed and at midnight we were sold out! It all worked out in the end. I even broke my own admissions record, from 2007, in Akureyri and then I played a wonderful gig in Vestmannaeyjar on Sunday. Everyting worked out. But I was completely exhausted on Sunday night. I was completely spent.
“After 10 years, it’s like my body knows what’s coming and adapts; it’s kind of like long-distance running.”
Interview: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson
SKE: You often perform by yourself, alongside of dancers, but you’re hardly doing this all by yourself?
“It’s this great big machine that works because all of the cogs know exactly what their role is.”
Páll Óskar: Oh, no! I’ve got a team of great people behind me. I usually bring along a lighting technician, a soundman, two dancers and someone to oversee the ticket booth if necessary. It’s this great big machine that works because all of the cogs know exactly what their role is. Often times we have to adapt very quickly. Húkkaraballið (a ball) in Vestmannaeyjar last Thursday was quite memorable. In the old days, the ball was held indoors. You would have about 200 people inside dancing and then there would be about 1,000 people outside having a trúnó (an
home and started building a pink Viking ship for Gay Pride. Or rather for Hinsegindagar (an Icelandic word loosely translated as “queer days”), the “queer” word is a good umbrella term for everyone that is not straight: bisexual, transsexual, pansexual and other kind of people who aren’t gay, they fit the “queer” label quite perfectly. The idea behind the Viking ship, which will be my float for the, was born at around this time last year. I attended a fascinating lecture by ethnologist Særún Lísa Birgisdóttir. She spent five or six years reading through Icelandic manuscripts, from the settlement era, with her literary “queer” glasses on. The conclusion that she reached in her research was that during those times queer people were silenced. In the manuscripts, there is little evidence for their existence besides the crudities and terms of abuse that referred to them. There are some really weird descriptions of beard-less men and bearded women. But, of course, these people existed. They were given roles like magicians, elves and hidden people. We are the invisible people; the hidden people; and I intend on building a pink Viking ship to give these people a platform. To give all of the Viking queens who were silenced a platform. The ship’s sails will be rainbow colored. We looked through endless pictures of Viking ships and what they all had in common was that their sails were made from six strips of canvas, which was perfect for us given that there are six colors in the rainbow flag. Viking queens will sail on this ship through an ocean of people furious at having been silenced for all these years.
“There are some really weird descriptions of beard-less men and bearded women.”
SKE: But you won’t have long to recuperate, with Gay Pride just around the corner.
Páll Óskar: No, after Þjóðhátíð (the so-called National Festival in Vestmannaeyjar) I returned
SKE: So, in a sense, you’re restoring the honor of those who, historically, were denied honor. Páll Óskar: There was nothing written about queer people until after the Second World War. During that time, British and American soldiers arrived in Iceland, dressed in these fabulous uniforms and knocked everyone’s boots off. In some sense,
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Icelandic gays were awakened to life during that time – not just the girls. Our ship is an ode to the invisible people, to the past. The ship will carry settlement queens, álfkonur (meaning “queens of the mountain”), a Miss Iceland.is wearing the colors of the flag, one Brunhilde, and Irish slave and four Viking queens. All of them will be dressed in pink from top to bottom. It is likely that these will be the queerest Vikings that you have ever seen!
“DJ Páll Óskar has paid my rent and my phone bills.”
SKE: That’ll be quite the spectacle, and our readers can look forward to it. But I also wanted to ask about your music. You just released a new song last Friday, “Líttu upp í ljós”, and just like your previous single, “Ást sem endist”, you released it for free on the internet. Can you tell me about the idea behind that? Páll Óskar: Yes. I’m fortunate to have had music and releasing records as my occupation since 1993, and I’ve had the opportunity of watching record sales in Iceland evolve from hard-copies to the internet, which has been really quite fascinating. Today I’m working on an album and I’ve made lots of demos – good pop songs – and I’ve decided to try new things. Instead of releasing an album in hard copy and following the album with singles, I began by releasing singles and will continue to do so for about a year, until June 2016. It began in April when I debuted “Ást sem endist” on Ísland Got Talent. Five minutes later, the song was available on the internet, as a .wav file, as an mp3 file on my website, on Youtube, on Spotify and elsewhere. For me, Facebook is the most effective distributor, where people react to your music immediately, during that first day. So the internet is a really good way to distribute one’s music, much more extensive than actual records. SKE: So the internet is killing music?
“In my entire career I have almost never made a profit from any album that I’ve released. I’ve been happy just to break even.”
Páll Óskar: I’m quite certain that the internet is more of a blessing than a curse when it comes to music. I don’t think mankind has ever listened to as much music as it does today, owing mostly to the internet. You have musicians today who would have never recorded music before. Not long ago, the record labels controlled the radio waves. Perhaps they still do, but the internet has given birth to a new world – a world in which you search for your own music and the distribution is word of mouth. This proves the old cliché that if the material is good enough – it’ll be heard. Good stuff is good stuff. But in my case, it’s an experiment that can’t go on forever. Next June, I will have most likely released about four to five singles, all of which will have become hits, hopefully, and then I have to ask the customer: “I’ve released five songs and there are ten songs left, would you like an album?” At that point I’ll point him in the direction of Karolinafund, or some similar website. And he can choose the format that he or she prefers: a cd, a vinyl record, a USB key or a cassette. But a 30page booklet will always accompany the music. I’ll kiss each and every copy; lick each and every postage stamp; and I’ll distribute the copies myself, in collaboration with the Icelandic Postal Service! In my entire career I have almost never made a profit from any album that I’ve released. I’ve been happy just to break even. All of my income since 1993 I have earned by performing. This is the reality that Icelandic musicians face if they don’t plan on making it abroad. Now, the rest of the world is waking up to this Icelandic dream – or nightmare! DJ Páll Óskar has paid my rent and my
“Icelanders didn’t really understand the concept of paying admission to concerts until Nasa opened.”
phone bills. Even though people no longer buy hard-copy records, I think they spend more money on music than ever before. Icelanders are more willing to buy concert tickets than before. Icelanders didn’t really understand the concept of paying admission to concerts until Nasa opened, or opened again, after a 30-year hiatus, in 2011. Finally there was a worthy concert venue in Reykjavík. An entire generation learned to attend concerts. People stood
still and listened to Mugison or Anthony & The Johnsons. At the same time, Iceland Airwaves was being born along with a whole new scene. And we have come a long way. I think it’s wonderful how well we nurture our new talent; how we take care of them; and how they’re assisted in finding a springboard; an airlift to bigger markets. I agree with Páll Óskar and thank him for a lovely chat.
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Expect showers and rain. Have fun.
www.66north.com
Exhibitions
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Mirror’s Adorn Adorn is the second exhibition in the Women in Nýló series in which the directors of the museum have chosen to focus on the role of women in the history of the Living Art Museum. Artists that are exhibited include Anna Líndal, Erla Silfá Þorgrímsdóttir, Hildur Hákonardóttir, Svala Sigurleifsdóttir and Þóra Sigurðardóttir. Where: Nýló / The Living Art Museum (Völvufell 13-21, 111 Reykjavík) When: May 14th –End of September www.nylo.is
Tunnel The interdisciplinary art performance piece Mirror’s Tunnel is a collaboration between artist Ólafur Elíasson, the composer Páll Ragnar Pálsson and the string orchestra Skark, which is inspired by Ólafur Elíasson’s sculpture Mirror’s Tunnel. The sculpture consists of three free-standing mirrors that form a kind of mirror tunnel: the sculpture being the foundation for Páll Ragnar Pálsson’s musical composition. The music mimics the qualities of the sculpture, in which sections of the music are mirrored and move between individual performers in the artistic space. The audience is invited to react to the music during the performance, making it possible for them to hear, see and experience the piece in different ways and from different places in the space. Where: Gerðarsafn (Hamraborg 4) When: Friday, August 14th, 20:00 www.cycle.is
Cycle Music and Arts Festival
Conversation
For the first time this summer the Cycle Music and Arts Festival will be held from August 13th – August 16th in Kópavogur. The festival aims to showcase inter-disciplinary artworks by international artists, many of whom are innovators in their fields. These artworks fall into the genres of contemporary music, performance art, visual art, audio art and architecture, with the main emphasis being on music. This is one of the first festivals that focuses on the burgeoning inter-disciplinary scene of music with other genres of art. Artists, scholars and guests will be invited to participate in the dialogue through concerts, events, workshops and symposiums, thereby promoting international collaboration and society’s participation in the contemporary art scene.
On Sunday, August 9th the artists Claudia Hausfeld and Pétur Thomsen will be discussing their work featured in the No Site – Icelandic Landscapes exhibition at Hafnarborg Art Museum with guests. The exhibition features works by eight photographers, all of whom reside in Iceland, and focus on Icelandic nature. Alongside of Claudia and Pétur, the artists Björn Árnason, Daniel Reuter, Edda Fransiska Kjarval, Ingvar Högni Ragnarsson, Katrín Elvarsdóttir and Stuart Richardsson are also contributing to the exhibition. The photographs were all taken between the years 2008 and 2015.
Where: Various Venues in Kópavogur When: August 13th –August 16th Price: 7,500 ISK www.cycle.is
Where: Hafnarborg Art Museum (Strandgata 34) When: Sunday, August 9th, 15:00 Price: Free www.hafnarborg.is
with the Artist
Pop Art Festival From August 13th–August 15th, Strandgata (Hafnarfjörður’s main street) will be transformed into one giant stage where all of Hafnarfjörður’s main artists will be collaborating. This is an event that no art lover should miss. Where: Downtown Hafnarfjörður When: August 13th–15th Price: Free
LISTERÍA LISTERÍA is a collaborative exhibition by five Icelandic designers that is held in the unfinished art museum in Seltjararnes (next to Nesstofan). Construction of the museum is far from being completed, but its crude infrastructure and its pure view of nature provide an excellent venue for different kinds of contemporary art. The musuem was originally designed to display and preserve objects associated with the history of medicine in Iceland, but following the financial crisis construction was postponed indefinitely, and the building’s future is still uncertain. The name of the exhibition may sound a bit repulsive, with listeria (list means art in Icelandic) being a bacteria that is prevalent in nature, and that causes infections in animals, and which can be lethal if found in humans. Contributing artists include Ragnar Axelsson, Ívar Valgarðsson, Svava Björnsdóttir, Kristinn E. Hrafnsson and Finnbogi Pétursson. During the exhibition, artists from different fields will be afforded the opportunity of distributing the artistic bacterium around the building in the form of spontaneous performances and exhibitions, which will be advertised with short notice. The LISTERÍA bacterium is therefore an unpredictable phenomenon in which everything can happen. Curators are Margrét Áskelsdóttir and Klara Stephensen. Where: The unfinished museum in Seltjarnarnes (next to Nesstofan) When: Weekdays through August, 13:00–17:00
Coming Soon New Release In the exhibition New Release at Gerðarsafn, the limits between music and visual art will be pushed to the limit by the approaches of various musicians and visual artists. For the exhibition, the Natural History Museum of Kópavogur has been growing glow-in-the-dark algae to illuminate the works of German visual artist Andreas Greiner, who, in his piece Multitudes, fuses visual art, contemporary music, technology and biophysics. Curator: Dr. Nadim Samman
Coming Soon is the first exhibition to open in the newly renovated project space Núllið (Bankastræti 0). The exhibition features works by young artists: Brynjar Helgason, Ívar Glói Gunnarsson, Logi Leó Gunnarsson and Una Björg Magnúsdóttir. Where: Núllið (Bankastræti 0) When: July 30th – August 30th Price: Free www.nylo.is
Where: Gerðarsafn (Hamraborg 4) When: August 13th –September 28th Price: 500 ISK www.gerdarsafn.is
Ceramic From the Collection Summer Walks This summer, guided walking tours will be offered in Hafnarfjörður every Thursday at 20:00. The walking tours take about one hour and are open to everyone. Admission is free. This Thursday, August 13th, Björn Pétursson, Hafnarfjörður’s relics custodian, will be leading the guided tour Loksins klukknahljómur (finally, tolling bells), in which the history of churches in Hafnarfjörður will be explored. Where: Starts at Pakkhúsið Historical Museum When: Thursday, August 13th, 20:00 Price: Free www.honnunarmidstod.is
Hafnarborg’s art collection is diverse and constantly growing. Currently, there are around 1,400 artworks in its collection, a large portion of which are paintings and sculptures from the latter half of the 20th century. The founders of Hafnarborg, pharmacist Sverrir Magnússon and his wife Ingibjörg Sigurjónsdóttir, laid its foundation by donating their collection of art to the museum in 1983. Hafnarborg owns various works by Icelandic and foreign artists, including plenty of ceramic artworks. This summer, in the Sverrir gallery of Hafnarborg, ceramic art by 14 Icelandic artists will be exhibited. These are all works from the museum’s collection, which were made between the years 1984 – 2006. Where: Hafnarborg (Strandgata 34) When: June 24th–August 23rd Price: Free www.hafnarborg.is
13 What’s happening
Q&A
14
What’s happening
Name
Wiktoria Joanna Ginter
Age
Turning 30 next week, whoop whoop!
Occupation
Q&A with Wiktoria Joanna Ginter PR Agent and Jam Session Organizer
Hmmm. I do tons of things. First and foremost: I am a mother of a Deity (her name is Aurora Blanka, she is five and she is an otherworldy creation). At this very moment, mainly I am a PR agent; an event producer; and a host at Radio Iceland. I'm also promoting Gaukurinn, a live music venue in the city center. In my "free time" I am the manager of three bands and two solo performers. And I will stop here, so people won´t get headache from just reading this.
Jam Session Background
I've lived in Iceland for more than eight years now. I'm also a musician and ever since I became a musician I've been trying to find people to work with me on a project or get them to WORK. I've noticed that the music scene here is very hermetic, and people are closing themselves in very tiny little circles and they neither want to step out of them nor let anyone in. Not all of them, but the great majority. It's this kind of ego-centric mentality. So they end up doing three to four projects with basically the same rotating cast of people, which in my opinion is boring and brings nearly nothing to their self-development and artistic evolutionary process. Times are changing. We live in a very rapidly shifting and evolving world and I think that ego-centrism and forced extravagance is something the art scene should fight – not be complicit in. I had a need to break these chaining-down habits and gather people with different backgrounds and views on the matter in one place. And the idea popped out to my head by an accident: I was really hungover after a Saturday night with my friends at Gaukurinn when I spontaneously asked a friend of mine to bring his guitar and play on stage. Then it sort of escalated, because another guy asked him, if he could also play, because he does music at home. And then BAZINGA! I wanted to make a proper Jam Session.
Why Jam Sessions?
Because there is no other method to recognize a person for who they really are than while seeing them on stage, completely "naked", in the purest state of creation: People who go up there most likely never met before in these circumstances, and the only way for them to communicate, recognize and understand each other is to play an instrument or sing. And I think it's beautiful when that happens.
Best Jam Session Moment?
REYKJAVÍK CENTRUM
Elegant bistro menu Service with a smile Cozy atmosphere Great location
There were a few. Jam Sessions are basically four hours of non-stop rotation on stage and every moment is amazing, fun, crazy and fantastic. But I think my personal favorite was when four guys were jamming, playing some heavy stoner rock, and all of a sudden a guy with a clarinet joined in and it all sounded absolutely fantastic. On these nights I am smiling from ear to ear, from the beginning until the very end. There's an orgasmic atmosphere with all of these wonderful people. It never fails!
Favorite band?
Don't have one. There are many bands in my life that have played a huge role in my personal development and also my musical fetishes. But two of them are really close to my heart and soul: Nirvana and Tool – because they embody not only excellence in the musical aspect and the art form, but also timeless, universal values, which are very dear to me.
Favorite Icelandic band?
As I said before, I don't have favorite band. They are many. Sólstafir, Kontinuum, Momentum, Shrine, Lucy In Blue, Ottoman, Tungl, Lily Of The Valley and oh, so many more. It all depends on my mood. But I do have to say, that Kontinuum is my dope these days.
Best Concert of the Summer (So Far)? Behemoth at Eistnaflug. Period.
Favorite TV Show?
Of all time? Monty Python's Flying Circus and Black Mirror. And I have a weak spot for Penny Dreadful (Eva Green, you know).
www.cafeparis.is
Best Decade in Music? '90s! I am a total '90s kid.
15 What’s happening
OH, HI! Stop by for some fresh JUICE, yummy SHAKES, tasty SANDWICHES and awesome COFFEE.
SMÁRALIND | KRINGLAN | WORLD CLASS LAUGAR | KEFLAVIK AIRPORT
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What’s happening
PRO 11:30 11:00
12:30 12:00
13:30 13:00
14:30 14:00
15:30 15:00
16:00
INTERNATIONAL ART COLL
Symposium in English
13.08.15 THURSDAY | FIMMTUDAGUR Tónlistarsafn Íslands Hamraborg 4
ART, SCIENCE AND SUST Symposium in English
14.08.15 FRIDAY | FÖSTUDAGUR
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
CHRISTINA KUBISCH Electrical walks Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
15.08.15 SATURDAY | LAUGARDAGUR
CHRISTINA KUBISCH Electrical walks
THE INTERSECTION OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC Symposium in English
CEREMONY HARMONY ICELANDIC LOVE CORPORATION Performance
Tónlistarsafn Íslands
Hamraborg Bridge
I MISS MY FRIENDS Berglind María Tómasdóttir Gamli Bærinn
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
FOR A DENSER CONSENTRATION OF THE CITY Open Workshop
16.08.15 SUNDAY | SUNNUDAGUR
Kópavogshæli
CHRISTINA KUBISCH Electrical walks Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
I MISS MY FRIENDS Berglind María Tómasdóttir Gamli Bærinn
ARTKINO Artworks with video and sound Salurinn Hamraborg 2
17 What’s happening
OGRAMME 16:30
17:30 17:00
LABORATIONS
TAINABILITY
18:30 18:00
OPENING CEREMONY | OPNUNARATHÖFN
THE ICELANDIC CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL
20:30
19:30 19:00
20:00
PARABÓLUR Perfor mance in a public space
EINAR TORFI EINARSSON
UNDER GROUND Ingibjörg Fridriksdóttir
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
Salurinn Hamraborg 2
ELECTRICAL PROCESSION FROM GERÐARSAFN TO NEXT LOCATION
22:30 22:00
SURROUNDED BY STRANGERS Performance
WHAT THE BODY DOES REMEMBER Erik Dæhlin | Silje Aker Johnsen
KAJ DUNKAN DAVID
Gamli Bærinn
Gamli Bærinn
Gerðarsafn Gamli Hamraborg 4 Bærinn
FINNBOGI EINAR OG TORFI EINARSSTEFÁN Performance SON
Performance
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
Gerðarsafn Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4 Hamraborg 4
FESTIVAL OF FAILURE Curated by Thora Tomasdottir
Salurinn Hamraborg 2
DYPTICH Icelandic Flute Choir | Þráinn Hjál marsson | Sigurður Guðjónsson
UNKNOWN N.I.C.O. + SKARK QUARTET Performance
Kópavogshæli
Kópavogshæli
ENSEMBLE ADAPTER Simon Steen Andersen | Þórunn Gréta Sigurðardóttir Performance
PINQUINS Performance
Salurinn
Molinn
THE BEAR OPERA BY WILLIAM WALTON
Salurinn Hamraborg 2 EINAR TORFI EINARSSON
Performance
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
23:00
THE TOTAL MOUNTAIN Jennifer Walshe Performance
I MISS MY FRIENDS Berglind María Tómasdóttir
Gerðarsafn Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4 Hamraborg 4
23:30
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
CHRISTINA KUBISCH Electrical walks
SIMON STEENANDERSEN - RUN TIME ERROR
21:00
SPIEGEL TUNNEL | MIRROR’S TUNNEL Skark ensemble Performance
Gerðarsafn Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4 Hamraborg 4
Gerðarsafn Hamraborg 4
21:30
Players Kópavogi
24:00
Food tips
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What’s happening
Café Flora A Fairy-Tale Sojourn
Lifandi Markaður – Borgartún
No matter the season, visiting Café Flóra is always like sojourning in a fairy tale. Located in the middle of the Botanical Gardens of Reykjavík, Café Flora is a seasonal bistro that is open from the 1st of May to the 1st of October. Not long ago, during high summer, I visited the café and as I approached it I was greeted by an endless variety of flowers and plants. Right in the middle of this verdant sea, the wonderful Café Flóra stood – and its interior was really something to behold: there was a goldfish pond in the middle of the café; a grapefruit tree that loomed above it; and a variety of fine art on the walls. This, in itself, would provide reason enough to visit Café Flóra – but then there was the food. Café Flora grows a large portion of the raw material that is used in the kitchen: lettuce, herbs and flowers, all of which are organic. I ordered the fried plaice with tartar sauce and fennel; some baked white cheese with honey, rosemary and cashews; and the cured salmon “graflax” tartar with dill mayo and radishes: what a feast! All of the dishes were cooked to perfection and there was a definite harmony among the ingredients of each dish. Also the presentation was excellent. I intend on returning to Café Flora as soon as possible, before it descends into its winter hibernation.
If you are hungry and thinking of a healthful option then it is likely that Lifandi Markaður will be among the first restaurants that come to mind. Located in Borgartún 24, Lifandi Markaður is a health-conscious restaurant with a wide range of healthy dishes from all food groups – all of which are devoid of any kind of white flour, white sugar or yeast. Guests can order hot or cold meals; eat at the restaurant or order takeaway; visit the soup and salad bar; or choose among a variety of smoothies and juices. A few days ago, I visited Lifandi Markaður and sampled some of their fish, their chicken and their vegetarian dish of the day, which was falafel. Not only were the dishes visually tempting, but they tasted great as well; it was obvious that Lifandi Markaður only cooks with the best of ingredients. Besides the presentation and the food, the service was excellent as well. The server was knowledgeable about the menu and answered my questions with warmth and care.
Words: SS
Words: Laila
The Best of Ingredients
Who needs oil when you have rain? Landsvirkjun is one of Europe’s leading renewable energy companies. Visit our interactive exhibitions at Búrfell and Krafla Power Stations this summer.
Free admission from 10 am – 5 pm every day. Route information at landsvirkjun.com/visitors
19 What’s happening
We proudly present our latest collection. The Icelandic designed Tradition watches are stylish and are available in a range of color combinations. See the whole collection on michelsenwatch.com.
Laugavegur 15 - 101 ReykjavĂk - Tel. 354 511 1900 - www.michelsenwatch.com
Design
20
What’s happening
Whalet Something Fishy Design: Hugdetta Model making kit full of real Icelandic fish bones. The bones come from cod and haddock, and are cleaned with a natural process until they are absolutely sterile and safe.
Design: Sruli Recht Single piece leather wallet, laser cut from Icelandic horse skin. Sruli Recht is a designer and artist based in Reykjavík, Iceland. He was born in Jerusalem, Israel and holds Australian and Icelandic citizenship. www.hafstudio.is
Moss Candles Design: Railis Design Soy wax candles with a burning time of 80 hours. Railis Design is a home-based studio located in Húsavík whose goal is to bring Iceland’s beauty and charm to the customer.
Hugdetta is a product and interior design company in the heart of Reykjavik. The husband/wife team Róshildur Jónsdóttir and Snæbjörn Þór Stefánsson founded the company in 2008 and have been designing and producing their own products ever since, as well as taking on projects such as interior design for other companies.
www.reykjavikcornerstore.com
www.hugdetta.com
Baby Seal Design: Vík Prjónsdóttir Playful, full-body baby suit that keeps your toddler warm. Vík Prjónsdóttir is an Icelandi c company that designs and produces creative, high-quality wool products. www.vikprjonsdottir.is
Cloud
Stick
Design: MARÝ
Design: IIIF
Stylish hanger perfect for accessories like ties, belts, tights, socks and jewelry.
Stick necklaces made from reindeer antlers on a fine gold-plated brass chain.
MARÝ is a playful, honest, storytelling and eco-conscious Icelandic product- and interior design studio based in Stockholm, Sweden.
IIIF is a multidisciplinary design team consisting of two Icelandic fashion designers and a French industrial designer.
www.reykjavikcornerstore.com
Gourmet Experience
- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is
www.iiif.is
21 What’s happening
Made in Perlan
This croissant is among many other delicious offerings made in Perlan earlier today for you to enjoy with the spectacular view overseeing the city in any direction.
C
A
F
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Things to do
22
What’s happening
Family Circus Party Sirkús Íslands, in collaboration with Reykjavík Pride and the United States Embassy, invites everyone to a family circus party at the Klambratún park this Sunday, August 9th. During the party, circus performers will be roving around the park and encouraging guests to try out all sorts of circus toys and gimmicks. Sirkus Ísland is the first and only circus operating in Iceland. It was founded in 2007 and has been a great success.
One Station for the Nation
Where: Klambratún Park When: Sunday, August 9th, 14:00 Price: Free www.hinsegindagar.is
Gay Pride Parade Bubbly Brunch Bubbly brunch is a special event taking place on the last day of Reykjavík Pride. Iðnó restaurant will be serving delicious brunch buffet and bubbly mimosas. Guests can sit back and relax, share their pride stories with friends and family and enjoy a good meal after a week of adventures. Where: Iðnó (Vonarstræti 3) When: Sunday, August 9th, 12:00 Price: 3,000 ISK
Reykjavík Pride will be celebrated for the 17th time this Saturday. During the first Gay Pride Reykjavík, 1,500 people took part in the festivities. Today, the festival has evolved into a six-day celebration that attracts up to 100,000 guests from all over the world. This makes Reykjavík Pride one of the biggest little Prides in the world. The Gay Pride festival promotes visibility and courage and provides gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in Iceland with a platform to manifest their pride. Reykjavík Pride is also one of the most popular events in Reykjavík’s cultural calendar. Where: The BSÍ bus terminal (Vatnsmýri) When: Saturday, August 8th, 12:00 Price: Free www.hinsegindagar.is
Radio Iceland is a brand new station that broadcasts in English. This is what makes it so special. In fact, regulations in Iceland needed to be changed for such a broadcast to be legal. This makes Radio Iceland a watershed in Icelandic broadcasting. The language spoken is English but the music is exclusively Icelandic. Radio Iceland interviews artists and people at the forefront of their fields; keeps you informed on what is going on in the country or in the city you're staying in; and updates you on the weather and road conditions every hour. Radio Iceland also features different shows and content with a rotating cast of interesting hosts: a little bit of everything for everyone. All hosts have their personalities and are allowed to express themselves freely on air: no other radio station in the country is so permissive, which means that every time you tune in – you're in for a treat! Radio Iceland is a brand-new station that started broadcasting in February of this year, but its increasing popularity at home and abroad suggests that by the end of this year it will be the leading station in the country. You can listen to Radio Iceland in your car or directly on its webpage: www.radioicelandfm.is
Rainbow Concert Following on the heels of the Reykjavík Pride Parade, a special rainbow concert will take place at the Arnarhóll hill in downtown Reykjavík. Well-known artists from the Icelandic music scene will be performing, including Amaba Dama, Steed Lord, Agent Fresco, Mannakjöt and Páll Óskar. In recent years, the Reykjavík Pride concert at Arnarhóll has been one of the biggest cultural events in Iceland’s capital, with up to 90,000 guests. Where: Arnarhóll When: Saturday, August 8th, after the Pride Parade Price: Free www.hinsegindagar.is
KRÁS Flea Market This Saturday, August 8th, the KRÁS flea market continues during Reykjavík Pride. At KRÁS 12 well-known restaurants in Reykjavík will bring their chefs and serve food on the street, presenting street-style variations to their usual dishes. The KRÁS flea market will offer live music, wine and beer, along with a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Everyone can find something to their liking, whether young or old. It is the perfect venue for enjoying summer. Where: Fógetagarðurinn (On the corner of Aðalstræti and Kirkjustræti) When: Saturday, August 8th, 13:00-18:00
23 What’s happening
Ske
24
What’s happening
On City Hall City hall is proof that it is not only good things that happen slowly – but most government projects as well. Here is the story of the building as recounted by the city’s website (condensed version): In 1799, discussions began concerning the erection of a city hall building. 36 years later, in 1835, these ideas made their way into a newspaper article. 83 years later, in 1918, the article was read by a mayor who formed a committee to consider the idea. 11 years later, in 1929, the committee decided to finance the idea – but nothing came of it. 12 years later, in 1941, another committee was formed to make up for the failure of the first one. And so on and so on and so on: So continues the story for almost 200 years, through committees and architectural competitions and city zoning boards, until the idea of city hall has traversed the bureaucratic quagmire of local government and comes finally into fruition in 1992. It is a torturous tale and one that is devoid of any appealing attributes. But it does serve to give one a sense of appreciation: a sense of appreciation for all government projects. Any building constructed by city government is a miracle – as unlikely as the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.
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
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
Laugavegi 20a 101 RVK 552-2300 www.lebowskibar.is
25 What’s happening
Visit Mývatn and experience the geothermal baths.
www.jardbodin.is | tel. 464-4411
Fashion
26
What’s happening
Una Valrún
Fatahönnunarnemi
Síta Valrún
Listakona & stílisti
Unisex During Vivienne Westwood’s Autumn/Winter Gold Label fashion show, the runway models were dressed in corsets, hula skirts, oversized pantsuits and shepherd’s coats – and all of the models, no matter their gender – were dressed in garments of the same cut during this captivating show. A fascination with the androgynous is not new in the fashion world. But it is receiving greater attention these days. The same holds true for the phenomena of unisex and transgender. The conventional gender stereotypes are all but forgotten. Bye forever: at least in the world of Vivienne Westwood. Today, there are even more transgender models signing contracts with big agencies. There are good things happening. This evolution should inspire us to reconsider the ways in which we pigeonhole the people around us – and how we pigeonhole ourselves.
A RARE, ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY Visit the largest man-made ice caves and tunnel in Europe You can choose from various tours and book online at www.intotheglacier.is
27 What’s happening
PROBABLY THE
WORLD’S SMALLEST WATCH MANUFACTURER
Our Master Watchmaker never loses his concentration
With his legendary concentration and 45 years of experience our Master Watchmaker and renowned craftsman, Gilbert O. Gudjonsson, inspects every single timepiece before it leaves our workshop. All the watches are designed and assembled by hand in Iceland. Only highest quality movements and materials are used to produce the watches and every single detail has been given the time needed for perfection. At JS Watch co. Reykjavik we’re committed to provide a personal quality service and we pride ourselves on the close relationships we have with our customers.
Scan it and learn more! www.jswatch.com
www.gilbert.is
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What’s happening
Streets of Reykjavík streetsofreykjavik.com
29 What’s happening
WHY
ERVE DO WE S BURGERS, ASS HAM N WINGS L C T S R I F ICKE H C S U O DELICI ILLER RIBS? &K
SIMPLY,
TTER E B S ´ T I BECAUSE
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What’s happening
ANT-MAN
LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | ÁLFABAKKI KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
79%
7,9
MAGIC MIKE XXL
ÁLFABAKKI | KRINGLUBÍÓ SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL | SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
64%
6,3
JURASSIC WORLD LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | ÁLFABAKKI
HUMAN CAPITAL BÍÓ PARADÍS
SHE’S FUNNY THAT WAY SMÁRABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ
71%
7,3
81%
7,4
36%
6,2
ENTOURAGE 1001 GRAMS
SPY
SMÁRABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ
BÍÓ PARADÍS
7,6 6,6
ÁLFABAKKI
PIXELS
95%
BÍÓ PARADÍS
7,4
32%
6,8
95%
87% 18%
5,3
SAN ANDREAS
TERMINATOR GENISYS ÁLFABAKKI | KRINGLUBÍÓ SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL | SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
7,0
GIRLHOOD
SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK | BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
TOMORROWLAND
ÁLFABAKKA | KRINGLUBÍÓ
6,6
50%
ÁLFABAKKI SAMBÍÓIN, AKUREYRI
TED 2
SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK | BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
26% 7,1
INSIDE OUT
SMÁRABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ
48%
6,7
50%
8,9
98%
31 What’s happening
Osushi is a unique restaurant in Iceland. The method of dining involves snatching small plates from a conveyor belt. Pricing is distinguished by the color and pattern of the plate - most range between 230 - 440 ISK.
Everything off the conveyor belt is tasty and if you don’t really fancy sushi, you can instead choose for example teriaky chicken, noodle salad, tempura and desserts.
The vibe in OSHUSHI is friendly and relaxed. The restaurant is located almost next door to Althingi ( the parliament ) which is in the heart of the city.
| www.osushi.is | sími: 561-0562 | Pósthússtræti 13 | Borgartúni 29 | Reykjavíkurvegi 60 | osushi@osushi.is |
A GEOTHERMAL ENERGY EXHIBITION
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.
Hönnun: adalheiduro@simnet.is
Open daily from 9:00 – 17:00. We are about 20 minutes drive from Reykjavík on Route 1 towards Hveragerði.
More information: www.orkusyn.is Tel + 354 412 5800 e-mail: orkusyn@orkusyn.is Gps 64°02”248’- 21°24”079´