Ske #18 - (English version)

SKE Plans Your Perfect Day in Reykjavík #18

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“If you’re going to heckle me then you better be prepared.

I’ll destroy you.”

– SKE speaks with Icelandic cartoonist and comedian Hugleikur Dagsson

Ske

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A “Perfect” Day Pt. 18 There is no such thing as perfect. A thing cannot be perfect. But when a thing is sufficiently wonderful we may refer to it as perfect for the sake of emphasis – such a thing is customary. A few days ago, we experienced a day that was wonderful enough to predispose us towards exaggeration, and we are confident that if any traveler were to follow in our footsteps, then they too would feel the same. It was, in all honesty, a perfect day.

1.

Huggin’ the Polar Bear (EDITORIAL) I begin each day by hugging the polar bear. And when I say that I begin each day by “hugging the polar bear” I do not mean that in the literal sense. It would be unwise of me to commence each day by wrapping my arms around a large carnivorous animal.

Such a thing would hardly be conducive to a long and prosperous existence – and would most likely negatively impact my insurance premiums as well: Nosirree, Bob! What I mean when I say that I begin each day by “hugging the polar bear” is that I begin each day by inserting myself into a large vat of frigid water (a feeling not unlike hugging a polar bear, I imagine; it is both cold, scary and a little strange).

This ritual forms a part of my morning routine – which goes a little something like this: Following a session of exercise at the Suðurbæjarlaug swimming pool, in which I am surrounded by an exhumed graveyard of senior citizens – and where I shamelessly flaunt my youth like an ostentatious fur coat – I stumble into the shower and prepare myself for the pool. I show consideration for the eyes of the other guests by putting on a bathing suit (#gentleman), before walking up the stairs and proceeding towards the pool.

To ascend to the surface from the underground gym is akin to emerging from a nuclear bunker following a zombie apocalypse; it is not an entirely unpleasant feeling. Liberated, I sit down in the hottest hot-pot in Suðurbæjarlaug and ponder the big existential questions in the manner of an aquatic Plato. I ponder the big existential questions until the heat becomes unbearable (it quickly becomes unbearable – it’s like an Adam Sandler movie). After a brief while, I rise to my feet and walk towards the fish-bin (the aforementioned “large vat of frigid water”), take a profound breath and descend into the water: kwaaaaaah. I try my best to linger there for a minute or two. I wheeze; I suffer; I tremble – and I rise again. I rise again like a frozen Phoenix ungracefully crawling from underneath a frozen lake and walk back towards the hottest hot-pot in Suðurbæjarlaug, uncontrollably aware of the resulting shrinkage (#seinfeld #shrinkage). And then I descend into the water … descending into the water after having “hugged the polar bear” is like allowing the Cosmos to fellate you – except that it is a kind of universal fellatio: the Cosmos sucks your entire body like a large, wet phallus – and you come continually for half a minute; the feeling is glorious. It shocks you to life. I cannot but recommend it.

Ske Editors: ritstjorn@ske.is Advertisement: auglysingar@ske.is Editorial and Interview: Ragnar Tómas Hall­gríms­son Inter­viewee: Hugleikur Dagsson Streets of Reykja­vík: Birta Rán Printing: Ísafoldarprentsmiðja Layout: Helgi Pétur Lárusson Design: Gebo ehf.

Sundhöllin Fire and Ice 09:00

They say that Iceland is “the land of fire and ice”. If this is true, then a soak in an outdoor hot-tub is as near a man can come to experiencing that manifestation of the national identity without dying in the process. There is something ineffably wonderful about sitting in warm water during cold weather; it wakes one up. The best place to experience the nation’s essence in its sensational form is at Sundhöllin.

Sundhöllin is an indoor swimming pool located on Barónsstígur 45 A in downtown Reykjavík.

Construction was completed in 1937 based on the designs of former state architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Besides the indoor pool, Sundhöllin also features a sauna and a terrace with hot-tubs.

After exiting the showers, SKE recommends launching yourself carelessly off the diving board and venturing outside to the hot-tubs for some fresh air.

2. Eymundsson

Books and Coffee 10:30

Some things were made for each other: movies and popcorn; baseball and hot-dogs; popsicles and summer days; and, last but not least, books and coffee. If you are looking for the venue by which to indulge in the lattermost combination – then look no further than Eymundsson on Laugavegur (the main shopping street in downtown Reykjavík). At Eymundsson you will find a nice selection of local and foreign books and magazines, which you can carry up the stairs to the in-store coffeehouse, Te & Kaffi. SKE suggests following your visit to the Sundhöllin swimming pool with a stopover at Eymundsson. There is a section featuring classic works by Dickens, Twain, Hemingway and other authors which we always browse through. (Eymundsson was founded in 1872 by the entrepreneur Sigfús Eymundsson.)

3.

Íshestar

The Icelandic Horse 14:00

We cannot imagine being horses. We cannot imagine being pleased in the event of some foreign creature placing a saddle on our backs and inviting his fellows to ride atop us in the interest of tourism. We think that we would protest the act and try to kick that particular gentleman in his nose or at least make the ride as uncomfortable as possible. But the Icelandic horse is a much more obliging creature than us. The Icelandic horse does not seem to mind. If you are

interested in exploring the Icelandic countryside by way of a horse then Íshestar is not a bad way to go. Located in Hafnarfjörður, Íshestar offers a four-hour tour of the picturesque Icelandic lava fields every day at 10:00 and 14:00 (along with many other tours). This tour is referred to as the Lava Tour and it is suitable for both beginners and more experienced riders. (Hafnarfjörður is about a 15 to 20-minute drive from central Reykjavík.)

4.

Ostabúðin

Salted Fillet of Icelandic Cod 19:00 Ostabúðin is a delicatessen located on Skólavörðustígur (the word “Ostabúðin” translates directly to the “Cheese Shop” in English). Recently, Ostabúðin made a few renovations and expanded their establishment to make room for a restaurant, which has become the so-called “place to be” for lunch among the locals. But SKE has heard good things about the dinner menu as well (dinner is served between 17:00 and 21:00).

As regards the dinner menu, we have heard that the salted fillet of Icelandic cod, in particular, is especially savory. The cod is served with potatoes, pearl onions, kohlrabi and warm dulse mayonnaise. SKE recommends following your horseriding trip with a visit to Ostabúðin, where they do fish right (and most other things, as well).

5. Boston Drinks

20:30

There is but one proper way to wind down after a long day of tourist-related activities – and that is at the bar with an alcoholic beverage (unless you’re an alcoholic, in which case an alcoholic beverage may not necessarily be the best thing for you). There is a whole host of drinking establishments in Reykjavík, but there is one in particular that we keep coming back to: Boston. Boston is an old-fashioned walkup bar with hard wood floors and plenty of regular customers (located on Laugavegr). Supposedly, Björk loves Boston as well. SKE suggests transitioning from Ostabúðin to Boston, ordering an Icelandic beer and getting hammered like deceased Bostonian Edgar Allan Poe. Cheers!

(Happy Hour is every day between 16:00 – 20:00.)

You’re in for a perfect day.

The pictures relate indirectly to each segment: Tara Reid did the famous swimming pool scene in the Big Lebowski; Cate Blanchett starred in Coffee and Cigarettes; Madonna is a lover of horses; Taylor Swift loves cheese; and Uma Thurman is a Bostonian.

Riding with Eldhestar

Would you like to experience something different?

HORSES & HOT SPRINGS Experience a variety of scenery and excellent riding trails.

Tour 3C

SOFT RIVER BANKS This is a tour for the experienced rider!

Who would not like to ride in an extraordinary environment?

Tour 3B

ICELANDIC DIVERSITY Get in touch with Icelandic nature on horseback and taste the treasures of the nearby sea.

Tour 2G

We offer a great variety of horse riding tours just outside Reykjavik.

WINTER PROGRAM 2015 – 2016 Get further information at www.eldhestar.is

Eldhestar, Vellir, 816 Ölfus Email: info@eldhestar.is Tel: +354 480 4800

Music

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Lily of the Valley Lily of the Valley has been quite prominent over the past few months in Iceland – or, ever since the band was founded in 2013. The band’s drive, love for performance and friendship comes across to the audience whether at concerts or through the radio. For two years, fans have been patiently waiting for an album – and now the wait is over. The band’s debut album “Ghosts” is scheduled to be released in the beginning of October. In order to celebrate the album’s release, Lily of the Valley will host a concert at Gamla Bíó and perform the album in its entirety along with some older material as well. LOTV has recently returned to Iceland after a tour in Europe.

Myrra Rós will open for Lily of the Valley.

Where: Gamla Bíó When: Wednesday, October 7th, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK www.midi.is

Víkingur Heiðar Performs Alexander Scriabin Víkingur Heiðar is Iceland’s preeminent pianist. This year, Víkingur was chosen performer of the year for the fourth time at the Icelandic Music Awards. He was awarded the title for his performance of Beethoven’s 1st with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra. For this concert at Harpa, Víkingur Heiðar will perform the Coriolan Overture by Beethoven; the Piano Concerto in F sharp minor by Alexander Scriabin; and Franz Schubert‘s 9th Symphony. The concert will be conducted by the Norwegian conductor Eivind Aadland.

Where: Harpa When: Friday, October 9th, 20:00 Price: 4,990 – 8,990 ISK www.tix.is

Svavar Knútur Release Concert Musician Svavar Knútur celebrates the release of his fourth album, “Brot” (“The Breaking”) with a concert at Gamla Bíó. Svavar Knútur will perform the album in its entirety – alongside of some of his favorite songs.

Svavar will be supported on stage by an impressive band and a few guest singers as well, including the Czech singer Markéta Irglóva and Kristjana Stefáns.

Lára Rúnars will warm up for Svavar with a few wellchosen singles from her recently released album “Þel”.

Where: Gamla Bíó When: Tuesday, October 6th, 21:00 Price: 3,500 ISK www.tix.is

Dikta recently released their album “Easy Street” and celebrated its release with concerts at the Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík and at Græni Hatturinn in Akureyri. The songs “Sink or Swim” and “We’ll Meet Again” have become quite popular. Dikta will be performing at Húrra and will be joined by singer Friðrik Dór, who is one of Iceland’s most famous pop musicians. His song “Í Síðasta Skipti” has been on heavy rotation on local radio stations. Who knows if Dikta and Friðrik Dór do a song together?

Where: Húrra When: Friday, October 9th, 22:00 Price: 1,500 ISK

Where: Harpa When: Thursday, October 8th, 19:30 Price: 2,400 – 6,900 ISK www.tix.is

Kiriyama Family

The Vintage Caravan (Release Concert)

Kirayama Family performs keyboard pop of the highest quality. Since 2010, these south Icelanders have been perfecting their sound. The band has managed to create an exciting and unique soundscape that stretches from the ‘90s until today. These days, Kiriyama is preoccupied with releasing singles from their upcoming album along with music videos. The band has decided to focus their attention on internet releases and concerts over the coming months.

The Vintage Caravan celebrates the release of its newest record “Arrival” at Gamla Bíó. “Arrival” was released by the German record giant Nuclear Blast in May and has received favorable reviews. Vintage Caravan is returning to Iceland after an eventful tour abroad alongside of the band Europe – a band famous for its song “Final Countdown”. For the concert, Vintage Caravan will perform “Arrival” in its entirety along with some older material as well.

Todmobile Todmobile is an Icelandic pop/rock band that was very popular in Iceland in the ‘90s. On October 9th, Todmobile will host its annual concert at Harpa for the fifth time. This will be a “back to basics” rock ‘n’ roll concert; there will be no chamber orchestra; no choir; and no foreign guest. It’s worth mentioning that the concert coincides with the 25th anniversary of Todmobile’s eponymous album “Todmobile”, which the band will perform in its entirety (“Todmobile” was recently voted one of the best 100 records in Icelandic history).

Dikta and Friðrik Dór

Where: Græni Hatturinn (Akureyri) When: Friday, October 9th, 22:00 Price: 2,500 ISK www.midi.is

Blikktromman / The Tin Drum Every first Wednesday of each month, the Harpa Concert Hall will host a concert series entitled Blikktromman (The Tin Drum). The concert series will see many of the nation’s most talented musicians perform in the nation’s most luxurious concert hall.

The Tin Drum is a seated concert in the Kaldalón hall of Harpa. After the concert, guests are invited to enjoy a drink with a view of Reykjavík’s old harbor.

Where: Harpa, Kaldalón When: Wednesday, October 7th, 20:00 Price: 3,500 ISK www.tix.is

Where: Gamla Bíó When: Friday, October 9th, 22:00 Price: 2,900 ISK www.tix.is

Lára Rúnars Lára Rúnars will be in a travelling mood this winter.

She will begin her tour of Iceland with a concert at Café Rósenberg on Thursday, October 15th. Lára released her fifth album, “Þel”, this summer. For the concert at Rósenberg, Lára will perform songs from her new album alongside of some older material as well. Born and raised in Reykjavík, Lára developed a love of music while growing up listening to her father playing and recording with legendary Icelandic band Grafík.

Through him, Lára was first introduced to the likes of Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits and Nick Cave.

Where: Café Rósenberg (Klapparstígur 27) When: Thursday, October 15th, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK www.midi.is

Music

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NEW TUNAGE

Högni Egilsson Högni Egilsson has performed all over Iceland during his career.

Now, he will be performing at the Petersen Suite at Gamla Bíó.

The concert forms a part of his October tour of Iceland. For the concert, he will perform a variety of material – and there is plenty of material available; Högni has not only performed with the hugely successful bands Hjaltalín and Gus Gus, but has also been working on solo material under the name of HE. He has also written songs for theater, television and film.

Where: Gamla Bíó, the Petersen Suite When: Saturday, October 17th, 22:00 Price: 2,500 ISK (2,000 ISK online) www.midi.is

Casio Fatso (Release Concert) In order to celebrate the release of their debut album, “Controlling the World from my Bed”, which was released last July, Casio Fatso will be holding a release concert at Gamla Bíó. The album will be performed in its entirety along with two new singles. “Controlling the World from my Bed” has received wonderful reviews from critics; the album was a kind of declaration of war against Icelandic mainstream music. The band is on a mission to revive real rock ‘n’ roll music, which they feel has been in a state of remission over the past few years. All of the songs will be especially introduced and the story behind them briefly related. Or not. It will depend on the mood during the concert. Lily of the Valley will open for Casio Fatso.

H. dór – Desert “H. dór leads you through a beautiful desert like a trusty camel.”

Where: Tjarnarbíó When: Thursday, October 22nd, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK www.midi.is

DIMMA and SinfoniaNord The northern Iceland symphony orchestra enters the hard-rock world of DIMMA and affords it a new dimension. Julian Kershaw, who is a world-famous producer from England, will participate in the project with DIMMA. Julian has recently arranged for Sir Paul McCartney, Richard Ashcroft and Elvis Costello. This will be a stone-cold and magical rock concert with high-quality lighting and sound effects. Ray Gwilliams, who has done video installations for Sigur Rós, will oversee the visual aspect of the concert. This will definitely be a one-of-a-kind symphony concert.

Where: Hof (Akureyri) When: Saturday, October 17th, 20:00 / 23:00 Price: 7,900 ISK www.tix.is

Favorite Russians Uzbekistani pianist Behzod Abduraimov performs pieces by famous Russian composers – including Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto no. 3.

Prokofiev was on summer holiday in France when he completed his Piano Concerto no. 3. He had been collecting ideas for it for a decade. Although it first garnered a rather tepid response, much to the composer’s disappointment, it has since become one of his most popular works. Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto no. 3 is frequently on the program when Uzbekistani pianist Behzod Abduraimov performs. In 2009, Abduraimov won the grand prize in the London International Piano competition, at age 18. Soon thereafter he landed an exclusive recording contract with Decca. “Could this fresh-faced child be a new Horowitz?” asked the music critic of the Independent. Abduraimov will also be performing selected pieces

by Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Where: Harpa When: Thursday, October 22nd, 19:30 Price: 2,400 – 6,900 ISK www.tix.is

Tina Dickow & Helgi Hrafn Jónsson Singer/songwriter Tina Dickow has long since been one of Denmark’s brightest pop stars. She currently lives in Seltjarnarnes with her husband Helgi Hrafn Jónsson who was chosen the official “town’s artist” of Seltjarnarnes in 2015. Together, the two have performed all over the world. They recently returned from a tour of Europe, where they performed for over 300,000 people in many of the biggest festivals and concerts on the continent. In order to celebrate the Cultural Festival of Seltjarnarnes, Tina and Helgi will be throwing a special concert. They will lead the audience on a journey through their musical catalogue. Tina and Helgi have previously turned down every opportunity for performing in Iceland and will not be performing in Iceland over the coming months due to a full schedule.

Where: Seltjarnarnes (Seltjarnarnes Community Center) When: Saturday, October 17th, 20:00 / Sunday, October 18th, 20:00 Price: 2,900 ISK www.tix.is

Cheddy Carter – Janet “You can’t fudge with this flow.”

Bent – Baraseira “Icelandic rapper Bent is older than he thought he would be #jussayin (#baraseira).”

Af Fingrum Fram Faroese singer/songwriter Eivör Pálsdóttir will accompany Icelandic pianist Jón Ólafsson for the “Af Fingrum Fram” concert series in the Salurinn concert hall in Kópavogur. This will be a kind of conversational concert, in which Eivör will discuss her eventful life and career with Jón Ólafsson, while performing some of her most well-known songs. Eivör Pálsdóttir settled in Iceland in the ‘90s with the aim of studying singing. Icelanders have considered her one of their own ever since.

Where: Salurinn (Kópavogur) When: Thursday, October 29th, 20:30 Price: 3,900 ISK www.midi.is

Oyama – Vinur vina minna “Friendly sounds by a friendly group.”

8 99% of all stick figures are born into agreeable circumstances. They are born into sunny, one-page Universes and lead lives of quiet dignity. The sole purpose of their existence is to stand still and quietly emulate whatever family member they are intended to resemble. Their Gods are children; their biographies are brief; and when they pass their graves become colorful wastebaskets. But there are a small percentage of stick figures who are less fortunate. They may reside in similarly small worlds – but the circumstances of their existence are decidedly less agreeable. This owes to the fact that they are not created by unworldly children, but by a cynical and rather morbid Icelander named Hugleikur Dagsson. Hugleikur Dagsson is not a benevolent deity. He is the bespectacled and fecund father of an unfortunate race of creatures, who are, more often than not, the unsuspecting victims of rape, incest, violence and murder. Furthermore, they are an unusually long-lived race; owing to the popularity of their Creator’s vision they may lead long and drawnout lives, sometimes suffering publicly on living-room walls. It is a strange thing, to sympathize with a stick figure, but I cannot help it (I am a compassionate and pitying human being who inherited his compassion from his grandmother). This morning, I witnessed a member of that hapless race tell his comrade that his insides were slowly filling up with feces. Why? Because his rectum had been sewn shut by his wife – and tomorrow he shall, undoubtedly, be more congested still. Hugleikur’s microcosm reveals that we are all the oblivious casualties of our circumstances and of our Creators. Perhaps it is therefore wise to adopt a compassionate attitude towards our fellow beings: Who knows what kind of a perverted joke their God is playing on them today?

I knock on Hugleikur’s door and he invites me in. His apartment exudes an unmistakable aura of “nerd”. I feel right at home.

I turn on the Dictaphone and we get things rolling.

SKE: I wanted to begin with the subject of “censorship“. As you may know, this week marks the annual “Banned Books Week” (September 27th – October 3rd). Have you ever held back regarding the publication of your work?

Hugleikur Dagsson: No, not really. There’s never been a joke that I wanted to do but didn’t do because I suspected that it would not be well received. If I’m going to cross the line, I try to find some way to get away with it. There’s this discussion that comes up regularly: “You can’t joke with this or you can’t joke with that.” At one point they said that rape jokes weren’t funny. When they make that kind of declaration, every comedian, whether female or male, reacts by saying, “yes, we can; if it’s a good rape joke, then it’s funny.” Then people begin setting these rules on what constitutes an acceptable rape joke. They say things like, “so long as the rapist is the butt of the joke it’s okay,” or something like that. And sure: that’s one way to tell a rape joke but for me, personally, I don’t think that you can

restrict it in that way. Whatever the subject, there’s always some way to approach it comedically; man’s imagination is too boundless for it to accept limitations. You can always create the right context for something to be funny. But on the other hand, if you tell an incendiary joke, that upsets the community, and inspires a collective uproar on Facebook, and they demand that you resign,which always happens – you have to resign – then you have to take that into consideration; what was it that inspired this reaction? It’s almost democratic. If you experience a greater sense of disapproval than approval among the “Whatever the community then, more subject, there’s often than not, the always some blame lies with you. way to approach It’s called reading the it comedically; room. When you step on man’s imagination stage, you try out different is too boundless types of jokes to get a sense for it to accept for the crowd.

And then limitations.” when you’ve got a sense for the crowd you can start saying whatever you want. But if you tell a joke about racism, which could be misunderstood as racist, then you must take responsibility.

Have you ever apologized for anything that you’ve said or done?

I’ve never apologized.

A long time ago, a drawing of mine was published in the Reykjavík Grapevine. The drawing depicted newlyweds running out of a church, while the crowd showered them with rice, and the man says to his wife, “oh, by the way: I’ve got AIDS.” There were, at least, two people who wrote to the magazine complaining. And when complaints are sent to Grapevine it’s usually politically-correct Americans who write them. There was someone who wrote and said, “AIDS is not funny. You don’t make fun of AIDS.” This person knew someone who had died of AIDs. This person’s reaction is completely understandable. But there’s no chance in hell that I’m going to apologize because I know what the joke is about.

I also know that there’s no angry mob going to show up at my doorstep with hayforks.

But the then-editor of Grapevine apologized on my behalf.

This was before Haukur’s time?

Yes, this was before his time. But I was very unhappy with the fact that they apologized on my behalf. I saw no reason to apologize.

I’m waiting for the moment to come when I have to apologize. But when that happens I have to believe that I’m at fault. I won’t apologize simply for the sake of pacifying some particular group of people. There seems to be this context to my drawings in which, in most cases, people understand the comedy behind them. It’s got something to do with the fact that these are very simple drawings; the absurdism is obvious.

But that’s also the challenge: finding new ways to be funny. But sometimes I’m just disgusting for the sake of being disgusting.

Sometimes that’s the joke: how disgusting it is.

I laugh.

I think you’re right. Ultimately, a joke is to be judged by its funniness. I think that’s what’s important. If the joke is good enough, then it can be very dark and still

be acceptable.

Exactly. But then people start asking themselves, “who decides what’s funny? Who makes the rules?” But it’s the people who decide what’s funny and what’s not funny. And this becomes most evident during standup.

If you go on stage and tell a joke and no one laughs it’s not because the audience “If you go on stage is stupid – it’s because you’re not funny.

and tell a joke and

no one laughs it’s not because the audience is stupid – it’s because

I wrote an article about you and your drawings a few weeks ago (which serves as an introduction to this interview), I don’t know if you saw it …

No, I don’t think so.

you’re not funny.”

I have this kind of theory. What I love about writing about things, and thinking about things generally, is that you form a much more personal, more authentic bond with these various phenomena.

I wanted to share this thought with you and see your reaction. The conclusion of the piece was the following: “Hugleikur’s microcosm reveals that we are all the oblivious casualties of our circumstances and of our Creators. Perhaps it is therefore wise to adopt a compassionate attitude towards our fellow beings: Who knows what kind of a perverted joke their God is playing on them today?”

I would agree with that…

Hugleikur laughs.

Could you repeat what you said about a “compassionate attitude” (the excerpt that I read was a rather unpolished translation of the text above)?

What I mean is this: 99% of stick figures are born into very beautiful worlds. They’re there to emulate whatever family member they’re intended to resemble.

The sun is out. Their lives are short. They’re happy. But your characters – they’re born into a much darker world. They are born into these circumstances. They are the way they are. I think that there’s a profound truth underlying your work. To me, it’s this strange, absurd reminder of how much of our lives depends on circumstance.

I don’t know. These days I rarely get angry. For me, my drawings and my comedy serve a kind of therapeutic purpose. If I wasn’t doing all this I’d probably be much more ill-tempered and annoyed and much less agreeable on Facebook. I’d probably be writing regular posts on how everything sucks. There was a time when if an actor would get on my nerves I would completely lose it: “I hate, hate Julia Roberts!”

We laugh.

But these days I couldn’t care less. “God bless, Julia Roberts,” you know? But during the time these little insignificant things would get on my nerves and I would always find a way to complain about them publicly. I defined myself by my negativity. But these days there’ so much ugly, revolting stuff going on in my comedy that, strangely enough, it has the effect of me being in a much more positive mood. The more I create, the better my mood. One of the side effects of having such a disgusting sense of humor is that when you finish a standup set, people approach you and tell you these jokes: “I’ve got one for you! You’ll like this!”

And then they tell you these really repulsive jokes.

We laugh.

Often quite sexist or racist jokes and I think to myself, “I just finished getting this stuff out of my system and here you are stuffing it back into my head.”

You’re quite big in Finland. You said of the Finns that in their eyes your books aren’t comedy – they’re a collection of facts about life (Hugleikur performed at an event that I attended in Helsinki last spring).

Last year, I went to Finland four times. This year, I’ve been there once and I’m going back there. I always go there to promote my books or to do some standup

“Sometimes I’m just disgusting for the sake of being disgusting. Sometimes that’s the joke: how disgusting it is.”

10 – sometimes both. I will be doing both during the upcoming trip. Ever since the Finns discovered my work, my books have sold well there. It must have something to do with the fact that their sense of humor is very dark. It’s probably darker than ours. They are, in some sense, Icelanders squared.

I laugh.

They are very similar to us. They drink a lot. They live in a cold climate. They have a very isolated language. But their history is much darker than ours. While maggots in our flour were our greatest nightmare they were actually fighting for their freedom – in a bloody war.

Against the Russians and the Nazis ...

Their history is so much bloodier. We share dark histories but theirs was bloody as well.

They’re slightly more “chill” than we are. They’re less boisterous. Judging by the Finnish nightlife, it seemed like everyone was very laid back.

Yes, they are a bit more laid back, that’s right. They respond better to my darkest humor than the even the Icelanders. In Iceland it’s always a question of the crowd; either they love it or they hate it. Sometimes, if I tell a pedophile joke in Iceland I’ll get hissed at, which is always nice, but in Finland everyone always laughs very heartily. I’ve often told this joke that you mentioned earlier, that my books are a collection of facts in Finland, and they find that very funny as well.

As a standup comic have you ever had to deal with a hardcore heckler?

Heckling is becoming more common. I’m less anxious these days before going on stage, even though I’m always a little anxious. I have to be a little anxious.

But I remember when I was starting I used to think that the worst thing that could happen was if someone started heckling me. But it rarely happened. These days, however, the more that I perform, and because standup comedy is becoming more popular in Iceland as well, I get heckled. There’s two types of hecklers: there are those who heckle you on purpose, and then there are those who don’t understand the etiquette. They just talk as if they were at a concert and it was okay, which is very disruptive. If someone is talking then I’ll pester them and make them be quiet. But if someone is purposefully trying to ruin my set then I focus all my energy on ruining that person’s night.

We laugh.

It’s never personal.

This is just my natural reaction. I have the mic purposefully and you’re making a scene. I’m going to ruin trying to ruin my your night. I’m going to destroy you. Often, set then I focus I’m successful. I’m not saying that I completely all my energy destroy the person but …

I was in Patreksfjörður on ruining that once, doing a routine, and there was this guy. person’s night.”

I heard him before going on stage, he was just grumbling and nagging. When I got on stage he began to heckle me. He was drunk. And I just tore into him. So much so that he ended up fleeing the room. He was just completely defeated. But it was fun because it inspired a lot of new jokes. It added about five minutes to my set.

Everyone in the crowd thought that it was rehearsed. It happens often. People think that it’s rehearsed.

“If someone is

It was completely spontaneous?

Yes. If you’re in the zone you can really do some damage to these hecklers. There was this drunk woman at Rósenberg the other night. It turned out pretty well.

It’s not welcome, but if you’re going to be a heckler then you better be prepared. I’ll destroy you.

We laugh. Allan, the photographer, calls. I ask if Allan can show up a little later. Hugleikur doesn’t mind.

You’re an independent artist, which can be difficult.

Do you have any routine that you stick to? Are you like

Hemingway, waking up at five in the morning?

No, I’m a night owl. I don’t really have any routine.

My attention span is not so good, because I’m doing so many things at once. I intended on publishing three books before Christmas but I think I’ll only be ready with two. I have yet to tell my publisher about it; hopefully they won’t be too upset. But it’s only because I was about to finish it and then I realized that I wanted to add this one section to it, and so this resulted in a three-week delay. It was not very responsible of me.

I’m mainly working on these books and my standup, and then I just got a green light for season two of Hulli (an animated TV series). It’s difficult to juggle these things. But I have a friend who has been my manager and she has helped me a lot.

You’re releasing two books before Christmas, and possibly that third one as well …

Hugleikur laughs.

The first book is called Hvað með börnin? (“What About the Kids?”).

“What About the Kids” is a classic Hugleikur book. It’s a new collection of comic cartoons. I haven’t done that kind of book for some time. I’ve released the “Popular Hits” books and took my stick-figures into new areas.

I did a deck of cards as well. But the collections are more fun and I have more freedom with them. The other book is called “Mamma”.

A graphic novel, right?

“Mamma” is the fourth book in the series Endir (“The End”). It’s a series about the end of the world. In each book, the world ends in a different way. Each book is written by me but the drawings are by different artists. I just got a few colored pages from the illustrator recently. I’m really happy with the artwork. I’ll be disappointed if the book isn’t nominated in the category of literary fiction (the word for “literary fiction” in Icelandic is “fagurbókmenntir”, which, if translated literally, would be “beautiful literature”.)

In the book Ofan og neðan (“Above and Below”) the world was turned upside down. How does the world end in “Mamma”?

“Mamma” revolves around a single mother who gives birth to a child who grows abnormally fast. Before its six-months old it’s bigger than its mother. But it’s still a child. Then it continues to grow until it’s begun to endanger people’s lives. And it continues. It’s a very simple story but it’s got a heart; there’s a palpable love between the mother and the child.

everyone, but it was pretty funny. It was a kind of Indiana Jones adventure story that takes place inside Eyjafjallajökull.

When will these books be released?

“What About the Children” will be released early October and “Mamma” will be released late in October, most likely.

What’s next?

I have to start writing the script to the next book in the series “The End”. A Danish artist will be doing the artwork. That book will be released next year.

Then we’re going to produce Hulli season two. That will be fun. It probably won’t be aired until next fall.

Then there’s the Þroskastríð (meaning the “Maturity Wars”, a pun on the Icelandic word for the Cod Wars “Þorskastríðið”) standup comedy series. The final night will be held at Rósenberg in October. But I was flirting with the idea of finding another venue in order to do three or four more shows before Christmas and recording one of the shows. I recorded one of my shows Djókaín (“Joke-aine“). But it was never released. It might be released on Youtube during the coming weeks.

That must be quite demanding. You must need to have a pretty polished set?

Hulli says that when he recorded “Joke-aine”, he stood in front of a full theater of people for 90 minutes without intermission. I ask him about his worst joke.

He says his worst jokes are those that are too intellectual ...

Mel Brooks once said, “wit is shit, funny is money”.

There’s truth to that. Whenever you do standup and you tell a joke that has a kind of “I’m-smarter-thanyou” vibe to it you tend to lose the crowd. The audience needs to think of you as an idiot or they must see themselves in you. There has to be some connection.

You can’t get up on stage and think of yourself as being wonderful. There are only a handful of comedians who can use confidence in their favor.

It’s about making fun of yourself?

Yes, you need to make fun of yourself. And when you do people laugh. Because everybody is suffering from some kind of an inferiority complex or have experienced themselves as being idiots and so you’re speaking to everyone. As soon as you say, “I’m so awesome!” it turns people off. People respond by saying, “what the hell are you talking about!? Who talks like that!?”

I think that’s my biggest problem on Twitter.

Sometimes I try to be too witty.

Who does the artwork?

His name is Pétur Atli Antonsson. He’s one of the best illustrators in Iceland. He did the illustrations for “Eineygði kötturinn Kisi og leyndardómar Eyjafjallajökuls” (“Kisi the one-eyed cat and the secret of Eyjafjallajökull”). It was a book that went past

On that note, our conversation ends. SKE recommends checking out Hugleikur’s work at local bookstores (visit his webpage, www.dagsson.com, for additional information).

A VIBRANT URBAN MARKET HEALTHY LIVING IN THE HEART OF REYKJAVÍK A visit to LIFANDI Markaður organic grocery is a truly sensory experience.

The shop´s inviting atmosphere is enhanced by warm textured wood, the scent of exotic spices and the gentle icker of candles in the rastaurant. Judging by the rush at lunchtime, LIFANDI Markaður is very popular with locals seeking fresh and wholesome fare, served with a smile.

EAT LIKE A LOCAL Shopping in LIFANDI Markaður will invariably make you hungry, so it´s a good thing that the grocery portion of the store is partnered with a casually chic restaurant which prides itself on using the highest quality raw ingredients available. The reasonably - priced menu changes daily, and chefs are encouraged to improvise so that each dish incorporates the freshest foods on hand that day. Every menu includes an enticing vegan or vegetarian option as well as meat or sh dishes, and ingredients are listed so that anyone with allergies or intolerances can enjoy their meal without worry. For folks on the run , LIFANDI Markaður provides delicious sandwiches, wraps, and energy bars, as well as hot takeout meals, all ready in biodegradable or compostable packaging. Even the takeout utensils and smoothie cups are made of corn plastic, so eating on the go can be fast, avourful, and environmentally friendly

NEWLY OPENED BREAKFAST BAR On weekdays from 7:15 to 10:00 am, LIFANDI Markaður offers several scrumptious breakfast options including greek yogurt with fruit, chia pudding, and scrambled or poached eggs along with grilled tomatoes, halloumi cheese and fresh sourdough bred, baked inhouse daily. An organic oatmeal buffet is also on hand, with all sorts of tasty toppings. A power breakfast wouldn´t be complete without LIFANDI Markaður´s own Green Thunder smoothie, packed with mango, spinach and an energising burst of ginger. Open until 8:00 pm during the week, LIFANDI Markaður´s wonderful staff promise their clientele exciting and nutririous choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. choi

THE TRAVELLER´S ONE STOP SHOP Centrally located in Reykjavík at Borgartún 24 and walking distance from downtown, LIFANDI Markaður provides tourists and locals alike with one of the widest varierties of certiLI -ed organic and ethically sourced products in Iceland. Whether stocking up on supplies for your holiday apartment or grabbing food to take on the road, travellers can be sure to nd an impressive range of the highest quality natural products - everything from fresh produce and baked goods to cosmetics, baby food and bulk organic nuts and dried fruit. Foodies will appreciate the many locally produced Icelandic specialties which include organic lamb, birch and angelica teas, lupin-infused juices, sea salts and creamy cheeses. Visitors to Reykjavík will discover that maintaining a healthy lifestyle away from home is easy at LIFANDI Markaður - the “ living market” for people who really like to live well. - MJA

Exhibitions

12

Art / Work Emil Magnúsarson Borhammar The Living Art Museum presents Art / Works, a solo exhibition by artist Emil Magnúsarson Borhammar in the museum’s project space in Breiðholt.

“Sometimes, I collect stones or moose poo. Sometimes, I go through art reviews with a fine-tooth comb. Sometimes, I draw. Sometimes, I walk through a shopping center with my dog off the leash.

During or after performing these concrete actions I reflect on my work and my own position in relation to the structure of society or my conception of the world in which I find myself. The reflection often leads to a verbalization about the whole process and becomes a visible part of the work. I use different media, but mostly text and film. I am interested in how power is constructed, exercised and maintained, and how different hierarchical systems work. And since I’m in the system called “the art world” I have, in some of my works, tried to understand its complex nature.”

Emil Magnúsarson Borhammar holds a Master’s degree from Konstfack, the University College of Arts, Crafts and Design, and a Bachelor’s degree from the Iceland Academy of the Arts. He has exhibited at Studio 17, Husby Konsthall, ABF-Huset, Skövde kulturhus, Skövde Konstmuseum, Gothenburg Museum of Art, the City of Gothenburg’s Municipal Library, Liljevalchs’ Spring Salon and Skaraborgssalongen.

Preview 10th October at 5pm in Völvufell 13 – 21, 111 Reykjavík.

Exhibition talk about Rough Seas Þröstur Njálsson, an amateur photographer and fisherman gives an exhibition talk on Bræla at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum on Sunday the 11th of October at 13.00. Þröstur gives us a unique insight into life onboard a modern Icelandic fishing trawler through photographs that could only be captured by a veteran of the seas. The viewer is pulled in to a world unknown to most, one that is rapidly changing as ships and automation processes become more and more advanced. Þröstur is a fisherman on the trawler Ásbjörn RE50 and Bræla is his second photography exhibition. The exhibition is made possible by Þröstur’s employer HB Grandi and the Reykjavík Maritime Museum.

This is the final day of the exhibition.

Spoken language will be Icelandic.

Free admission and all are welcome.

The exhibition will run until the 15th of November.

Where: The Living Art Museum, Völvufell 13-21, 111 Reykjavík When: Saturday, October 10th – November 15th

Where: The Reykjavík Maritime Museum When: Sunday, October 11th, 13:00

Exhibition Opening.

Nina Zurier – If I Was… A new photography exhibition will open at the Reykjavík Maritime Museum on Friday, October 16th at 17.00. The photographs are from the Reykjavík Museum of Photography’s collection and are taken by various photographers. Nina Zurier collected them in an effort to give viewers a new perspective. From real memories Nina has created artificial memories so as to re-ignite the real memories within the viewer.

Everybody welcome.

Where: Reykjavik Maritime Museum When: Friday, October 16th, 17:00

Exhibition talk at the Reykjavik Museum of Photography The curators of a new exhibition of the work of Gunnar Rúnar Ólafsson will give a talk about his work on Friday, October 23rd at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography. The curators are Gísli Helgason, historian, and Sigríður Kristín Birnudóttir, photographer.

Free entrance. Everyone is welcome.

Where: The Reykjavik Museum of Photography When: Friday, October 23rd, 12:10

Welcome to

Einar Ben In the heart of Reykjavik

Relighting the IMAGINE PEACE TOWER The Illumination of Yoko Ono’s IMAGINE PEACE TOWER will take place during a peaceful ceremony on John Lennon’s birthday, the 9th of October.

Yoko Ono invites guests on a free boat trip to attend the ceremony on Viðey Island. The first ferry departs from Skarfabakki at 17:30 and the last one at 19:20. Live music at Naustið will start at 18:30 and the evening will be made memorable with a serene and beautiful atmosphere.

Bus services to and from Viðey Island are complimentary. The first bus departs from Hlemmur at 17:15 and again every twenty minutes until 19:00.

For more information please visit videy.com

Veltusund 1 Ingólfstorg

einarben.is

tel: 511 5090

einarben @einarben.is

Where: Viðey Island When: Friday, October 9th, 20:00

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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

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Q&A

14

Q&A With Salka Sól Eyfeld Singer, rapper and coffee enthusiast Name?

What are you listening to these days?

Salka Sól Eyfeld.

After seeing Straight Outta Compton I’ve been going through this Ray Ayers phase.

Age? What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life?

27.

Occupational Title?

Being true to myself and taking things with a kind of stoic calm.

Musician and media personality.

Favorite joke/quote?

What’s on your mind these days?

I’m performing at the National Theater in the play “Í Hjarta Hróa Hattar” (“In the Heart of Robin Hood”). My band and I wrote all of the music for the play and we also perform in all of the shows. The Voice Ísland is about to air, so my mind is on that as well.

My little brother and I share a passion for lame jokes, so I would say lame jokes. But I only tell them during very specific occasions.

What’s best in life?

A warm bath and peace of mind.

If you could live inside one TV show, what show would you choose?

I’m a big fan of Seinfeld so that would be my choice. I wouldn’t mind hanging with the four of them in New York.

Podcast Recommendation of the Week:

The House at Eyrarbakki

THE HOUSE AT EYRARBAKKI Árnessýsla folk museum is located in Húsið, the House, historical home of the Danish merchants built in 1765. Húsið is one of the oldest houses in Iceland and a beautiful monument of Eyrarbakki´s time as the biggest trading place on the south coast.

Today one can enjoy exhibitions about the story and culture of the region, famous piano, shawl made out of human hair and the kings pot, are among items. Húsið prides itself with warm and homelike atmosphere.

Opening hours: May 1st - September 30th daily 11.00-18.00 or by an agreement Tel: +354 483 1504 & +354 483 1082 | husid@husid.com | www.husid.com

Philosophize This “Beginner friendly if listened to in order!

Philosophize This is for anyone interested in an educational podcast about philosophy where you don’t need to be a graduatelevel philosopher to understand it. In chronological order, the thinkers and ideas that forged the world we live in are broken down and explained.” (www.philosophizethis.org) SKE loves podcasts. And SKE loves Philosophize This. Hosted by Stephen West, Philosophize This first aired on June 6th in 2013. Since then, over 60 episodes have been aired – tracing the history of philosophy from its earliest days in ancient Greece to the latest episode on Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Philosophize This attempts to spell out complicated philosophical ideas in easy-to-understand language. Subscribe to Philosophize This immediately. Also, check out episode #43 on Tolerance. It’s a riot.

Blue Lagoon

Snowmobile on the top of a glacier

The Golden Circle 6 times daily

Book your tour now! iceland@grayline.is | +354 540 1313 | grayline.is

South Coast & Waterfalls

Paragliding on the South Coast

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

24 HOUR BOOKING SERVICE Book now at www.grayline.is or call +354 540 1313 Sales Office, Hafnarstræti 20, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

Things to Do

18

The Reykjavík Comedy Festival

Seltjarnarnes Cultural Festival

The Reykjavík Comedy Festival was a huge hit last year; dozens of comics and thousands of guests gathered together to enjoy standup comedy at its finest. This year, the Comedy Festival will be held for the second time.

The festival is organized by Sena in collaboration with the Europe Comedy Fest. Similar festivals will be held around the same time in Sweden, Norway and Belgium, among other countries. The Reykjavík Comedy Festival will feature the likes of Dylan Moran, Ben Kronberg, Dagfinn Lyngbo, Gabriel Iglesias, Doug Stanhope and others.

The Seltjarnarnes Cultural Festival will take place between Thursday, October 15th and Sunday, October 18th. The Festival will feature a variety of events.

There will be an exhibition at the Grótta gallery and at the former Medical Heritage Museum; lectures at the Seltjarnarnes Library; a Bach concert for children at the Seltjarnarnes Church; a pop quiz at Eiðistorg square; and a unique music event at the Seltjarnarnes community center, featuring Helgi Jónsson and his wife Tina Dickow.

Where: Various Venues in Seltjarnarnes When: Thursday, October 15th – Sunday, October 18th Price: Depends on the Event

Where: Various Venues When: Friday, October 23rd – Friday, October 30th Price: 990 – 11,990 ISK www.tix.is

Back to the Future Marathon When Marty McFly traveled back to the future in the film “Back to the Future Part II”, his silver DeLorean arrived on the 21st of October, 2015. In order to celebrate this momentous date, Bíó Paradís (Theater Paradise) will screen all three of the “Back to the Future films”, back to back. 1.21 gigawatts!

Where: Bíó Paradís When: Wednesday, October 21st, 18:00 Price: 1,400 ISK www.tix.is

Og himininn kristallast (And the Sky Crystallizes)

Photo Expo 2015

Sigga Soffía is not only an Icelandic choreographer, she is a rising star as well. Sigga Soffía entered the public eye in 2013 when she “choreographed” Reykjavík’s annual Cultural Night fireworks exhibition. The choreography was entitled “Eldar” (“Fires”). “Eldar” marked the beginning of a fireworks trilogy that was followed by “Töfrar” (“Magic”) in 2014 and by “Stjörnubrim” (“Star Surf”) in 2015. This year, the trilogy will end with a piece entitled “Kafli 2: Og himininn kristallast” (“Chapter 2: And the Sky Crystalliazes”), in which Sigga Soffía alongside dancers from the Icelandic Dance Company will recreate the fireworks exhibition on the main stage of the Borgarleikhúsið theater. The choreography is a kind of meditation on the similarities between fireworks and dancers.

The Professional Photographers Association of Iceland and the Icelandic Press Photographers Association proudly present the Iceland Photo Expo 2015. The expo will be held in Grand Hotel, Reykjavík on the 23rd and the 24th of October. The IPE 2015 focuses on all aspects of the photographic medium: advertising photography, landscape photography, news and photojournalism, and portrait and studio photography. The lineup of presenters will be announced soon and will include both local and foreign photography specialists each in their own speciality. The Photo Expo 2015 is open to all professional photographers and amateur photo enthusiasts interested in the future of photography.

A product and technology exhibit will be on display during the conference from major photography manufacturers and their local dealerships.

Where: Borgarleikhúsið When: Beginning October 30th until December, 2015 Price: 3,900 – 4,900 ISK www.tix.is

Where: Grand Hotel, Reykjavík When: Friday, October 23rd and Saturday, October 24th Price: 12,000 ISK www.midi.is

EXPLORE

LEARN

DISCOVER

Can’t catch the Northern Lights?

Don’t worry, we have already done it for you!

Visit us and enjoy our multimedia exhibition

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 09.00–21.00

Icelandair Hotel Marina

Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Near the old harbour Tel: (+354) 780 4500 - www.aurorareykjavik.is @aurorareykjavik

@aurorareykjavik

@aurorareykjavik

Food tips

20

Fylgifiskar Gratitude Words: Thomas Jefferson Snodgrass I am too grateful a man to be a food critic. I am incapable of dismissing this or that dish in harsh, critical fashion; of spitting at the floor and yelling in the direction of the kitchen with vehement disapproval; of earnestly asking the Gods to bury the cook and burn the establishment; or, of printing lengthy, abusive diatribes authored by my insulted taste buds: no, sir. Whenever I visit a restaurant I am merely grateful for the privilege of being there and cannot bring myself to criticize the food without feeling like an ungrateful fool (I must have suffered through plague, famine and pestilence in my former life: such is the stubbornness of my gratitude.) HOWEVER. Whenever I visit a restaurant and my gratitude begins to transcend beyond its usual limits, I know that such a feeling attests to the quality of the food – and that it is likely that even the most critical and carping connoisseur would approve.

Last Friday, I experienced such a feeling at Fylgifiskar. Fylgifiskar is a seafood delicatessen and restaurant (open for lunch) situated on Suðurlandsbraut. It is about a 15-minute walk from downtown Reykjavík, and it is well worth the stroll. I arrived at just past noon and breathed in the atmosphere, and even though there was considerable traffic – things ran smoothly (Fylgifiskar is quite popular among the locals). I walked over to the counter and selected the sea-perch from among a few other fish-du-jour options, grabbed a jug of water and took my seat. I then proceeded to glut myself. The sea-perch, which was served with teriyaki sauce, was accompanied with a brimming plate of sides: potatoes; a salad with tomatoes and cucumbers; and a most extraordinary leek, which was cut crosswise and had been baked in olive oil. It was wonderful. I scraped the plate clean and exited the restaurant with a smile. I cannot help but to recommend Fylgifiskar; it takes gratitude to a whole new level. www.fylgifiskar.is

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 teriyaki chicken, noodle salad, tempura and desserts.

The vibe in Osushi is friendly and relaxed.

The restaurant is located almost next door to Althingi (the parliament) which is in the heart of the city.

Kaffislippur

osushi.is

Licorice Hot Chocolate Words: Eric Blair

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r Pósthússtræti 13 / Borgartúni 29 / Reykjavíkurvegur 60 HF. ða ar Nj Tel: 561 0562 / www.osushi.is

Sometimes, it rains in Reykjavík. Sometimes, the clouds gather overhead and produce little droplets of water that beat against the windows. Most of the time, I am not bothered by the rain. That is to say, I am not bothered by the rain in the spring or in the summer or in the winter. It is only when it rains during an especially bleak autumn Sunday that my spirit begins to droop – and I begin to feel as I’m descending into a long period of decline.

During such days, there are few things that can buoy my spirit. Last Sunday, as I was strolling through the city of Reykjavík in the rain, I chanced upon Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina’s new coffeehouse: Kaffislippur (roughly translated as “the Shipyard Coffeehouse”). Seeking refuge from the rain, I opened the door and shook myself violently in the manner of a cartoon dog. I greeted the waiters and looked over the menu: sourdough bread with fresh avocados and tomatoes; ginger shots; yogurt; homemade chia pudding; different kinds of coffee and – a licorice hot chocolate. It being an especially bleak and rainy autumn Sunday, I knew that a cappuccino would not serve to lift my spirits. I knew that only some curious novelty like licorice hot chocolate would do the trick. Of course, I was skeptical about the concept of “licorice hot chocolate” – but I decided to try it nonetheless. Before taking my seat I inquired about the coffeehouse and learned that it had opened only recently (June, 2015). The coffeehouse’s manager, a woman by the name of Vala Stefánsdóttir – and who exuded a visible passion for coffee – told me a little about the history of Kaffislippur and about her coffee philosophy (she is not bound by contract to a single vendor but orders from different vendors based on the current quality of their goods. Also, depending on the quality of the roast. She seemed particularly meticulous). Eventually, I took a seat and soaked in the ambiance: pleasant music; a stylish fireplace; a shelf with a bronze fisherman on the lookout; it was the perfect refuge. As I stared out the window, observing the rain rapping against the window, the licorice hot chocolate arrived. It was especially delicious. I half forgot about the rain. I had found hope in a cup of licorice hot chocolate. Mmmmmm. www.kaffislippur.is

565 6000 / somi.is

Eat Out in Iceland.

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

Fresh every day!

Design

22

Wooden-Bead Necklace with a Beautiful Ribbon

Gangtegundirnar Fimm (The Five Gaits)

Design: Björg Helen Skart

Design: VEGG

Beautiful and colorful necklace that is both lightweight and comfortable.

Wall sticker designed by Pétur Behrens depicting the five gaits of the Icelandic horse.

Björg Helen Skart is a jewelry design studio based in Iceland.

VEGG designs and manufactures various wall- and window stickers for indoor use.

www.kisinn.is

www.kisinn.is

Botna Design: Varma Beautiful and warm wool cape made from 100% wool.

Varma is an Icelandic design manufacturer that focuses on Icelandic wool. www.kisinn.is

REYKJAVÍK ESCAPE Fun activity in central Reykjavik

Price: 2 people 5,990 ISK p/person 3 people 5,290 ISK p/person

Reykjavik Escape is a live interactive escape game located in the heart of the Reykjavik down town area.

Groups of 2-6 are locked in a room filled with puzzles and brain teasers, with only 60 minutes to escape! Great activity for friends,

4 people 4,990 ISK p/person 5 & 6 people 4,690 ISK p/person

Whale Lamp Design: Railis Design Unique table lamp made from real Icelandic drift wood.

The lamp also provides interesting information on whales.

Railis Design is a design studio based in Húsavík, Iceland. www.railisdesign-europe.com

11+ people 4,290 ISK p/person

families and groups.

Open all year - 7 days a week • Availability at 12 – 14 – 16 – 18 – 20 hours.

•

•

   

The Scientist Prison Break TAKEN Hangover

No cancellations due to bad weather!

Find us online and on social media.

We are eager to please. We are all about the experience.

Mosaic River Trout Design: Erna Björk Mosaic mural of a river trout (size 64 cm x 24 cm).

Frame included.

Erna Björk studied the ancient Roman technique of mosaics in Ravenna, Italy. www.mosaic.is

Kaffislippur Open every day from 7am – 6pm.

A lively café at Reykjavik Marina

The lively central Reykjavik becomes even more alive with the opening of the new addition to Slippbarinn: Kaffislippur. We have extended our Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina and Kaffislippur will shine its light in a new exciting space with fun, eye-catching design. Get ready for a new nontraditional space for meetings and private parties, the JazzClub, new dreams and a deli-atmosphere at its best.

Delicatessen

We’ve worked hard to make Kaffislippur as nice and pleasant for all senses – and the belly too! Delicatessen is a term that describes Kaffislippur well, homemade gourmet food to both enjoy on the spot and grab to go. We have refreshments of many kinds and many healthy choices along with the best cakes and tarts in town to enjoy from sunrise to sunset (except in summer, when the sun shines all night!).

The Coffee

We love coffee. Having coffee is a wonderful social activity that we wish to bolster. Our new coffee machine literally purrs when it gets a chance to make coffee for happy customers. We want you to enjoy the best coffee in town with us, no matter the type or how you like it. Don’t forget to get a small sweet treat with your coffee, cause we have plenty.

Ske

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On the Icelandic Phallological Museum The Icelandic Phallological Museum (located on Laugavegur) is where diverse and dismembered phalluses are gathered together for public display.

For a meager 1,250 ISK one may penetrate the museum and stand erect among its various members – marveling at nature’s inimitable imagination. I visited the museum a few days ago and was provided with a slim booklet at the front desk. The first leg of the tour was dedicated to the whales: the unholy pricks of Moby Dicks, which sometimes jutted out of the walls on stately plaques. Surveying the establishment, I quickly discovered that the gallery was so dense with dicks; so overpopulated with penises; so crowded with wangs – that I would have been hardpressed trying to take them all in. I could have spent three or four hours of diligent exploration without doing justice to them all. But I tried, nonetheless. I maneuvered myself between and among the penises while carefully examining all of the interesting information. Eventually, I arrived at a section of the museum dedicated to Anthropos; man; Homo Sapiens – the only animal whose phallus is legally protected and requires the notarized authorization of its owner before being severed and showcased publicly. Currently, there is but one human specimen on display. It is not a perfect specimen. Due to complications during the detachment procedure, the penis is shriveled, misshapen and gray. Another curious article featured in the exhibition is an outgrowth of silver mushrooms, or an object which closely resembles an outgrowth of silver mushrooms. Upon closer inspection, these are not really “mushrooms” – but rather the sculpted representations of each member of the Icelandic handball team, in celebration of their silver medal at the ’08 Olympics (an artwork crafted by the museum founder’s daughter). I left the museum with a greater appreciation for the shape and proportionality of my own penis; it is neither too long nor slender like the bull’s, neither is it treebrown like the elephant’s.

Happy Hour!

You know what time it is Prikið, Bankastræti 12 Mondays – Thursdays from 16:00–20:00 Beer–500 ISK

Vegamót, Vegamótastígur 4 Thursdays – Saturdays from 22:00–01:00 Beer: 750 ISK Wine: 750 ISK

Stofan Café, Aðalstræti 7 All days from 16:00–19:00 Beer: 650 ISK Wine: 650 ISK

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

Hlemmur Square, Laugavegur 105 All days from 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

Public House, Laugavegur 24 All days from 14:00–19:00 50% off draft beer and wine

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

– Ragnar Tómas

Wine: 650 ISK

Loftið, Austurstræti 9 All days except Saturdays from 16:00–19:00 2 for 1

Fashion

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Una Valrún

Síta Valrún

Fashion Design Student

Artist & Stylist

The Dude, Japanese Scissorhands and Black Lace Dresses beneath Overcoats ‘Tis the season for fashion weeks.

We gathered a few of our favorite looks from the spring/summer fashion weeks in London, Milan and New York.

There was a clear Japanese pajama vibe going on; floral patterns printed onto satin in nude and dark-blue colors; goldenchained bags; suede overcoats from STELLA JEAN

THOM BROWNE

Calvin Klein; luxurious, preppy,

DELPOZO

EMILIO PUCCI

ALBERTA FERRETTI

BURBERRY PRORSUM

princess-like, stripped, cherry blossom dreams from Delpozo.

If Edward Scissorhands were a geisha then he would approve of the Thom Browne suit. Both Emilio Pucci and Stella Jean exhibited colorful pajama-like clothing with patterns. Burberry Prorsum and Givenchy featured black see-through lace – a nightgown CALVIN KLEIN

THOM BROWNE

underneath an overcoat. Alberta Ferretti’s models wore patchwork in the fashion of the indigenous, transparent and in earthen tones.

We loved the silk robes, along with the matching silk pants, baggy with patterns; all of the robes in general; the long overcoats; the platforms; suits; and everything that was black and lacey, worn underneath a long robe or an overcoat. The Dude from the Big Lebowsky rocking that Courtney Love geisha vibe was

CALVIN KLEIN

a sign of luxury, in our opinion.

GIVENCHY

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.

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Streets of ReykjavĂ­k streetsofreykjavik.com

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The Philharmonia Orchestra Thank You! It’s been 30 years since the Philharmonia Orchestra held a fundraising concert for an Icelandic Concert Hall at the Royal Festival Hall in London.

The fundraising concert played a significant role in the construction of the Harpa Concert Hall. It is therefore a great honor to welcome the Philharmonia to Harpa during the concert hall’s fifth operational year.

iForgot A micro-essay by Charlie Marlowe It is obvious to any person tramping the streets of Reykjavík that Iceland is by and large a society of smart-phones – appended to human beings for the sake of transportation. To abide in the capital city destitute of this national emblem of interconnectedness and progress is to risk immediate alienation, and to experience the same incapacity that an armless member of a long-limbed volleyball team inevitably suffers.

I once experienced such estrangement first-hand. Having arrived at the Café Paris for a glorious cappuccino, I discovered that I had inadvertently left my iphone at home. And so I sat like a dispirited amputee – mourning the loss of his favorite limb.

Before long, my awkwardness attracted the notice of the cafe’s patrons, for I was staring into space in a most rural and backwards fashion. I am not entirely certain, but I may have been thinking. The suspicious onlookers then took to gaping at my hand and must have perceived it for what it was: a useless and naked stump.

At that moment I felt obliged to redress their misconceptions: “I am not a luddite,” I said, “I’m just absentminded”.

Eldborg, Harpa Sunday, October 18th, 19:30 Monday, October 19th, 19:30 Conductor: Jakub Hrůša Pianist: Daniil Trifonov Featuring Works by Rachmaninoff, Dvořák & Smetana www.harpa.is

Skólavör›ustígur 19 tel.: (+354) 552 1890 ONLY SWEATER SELECTION,NO KNITTING MATERIAL

Radisson Blu, Hótel SAGA tel.: (+354) 562 4788 Laugavegur 53b tel.: (+354) 562 1890

WWW.HANDKNIT.IS

N O I T A N I T S E D E N O R E B NUM 5 1 0 2 E P O R U E IN O T G N I D ACCOR T E N A L P Y L E N LO

www.visitakureyri.is Tourist Information - HOF | Strandgata 12 | 600 Akureyri | tel. +354 450 1050 | info@visitakureyri.is