1 What’s happening
Plan your perfect day
#2
Ske.is
SKE plans your perfect day in Reykjavík: peak inside for further details.
On Esjan A brief discourse on that famous geographical bulge commonly referred to as Mt. Esja, and how it is responsible for a subtle dichotomy in man.
29.05 2015-05.06 2015
Your free copy Your guide to what’s going on in iceland
A Wonderfully Discursive Conversation with Iceland’s Most Beloved Barber:
Stjúri Sigurðsson
Ske
2
What’s happening
A “Perfect” Day – Pt. 2 There is no such thing as perfect. A thing cannot be perfect. But when a thing is sufficiently wonderful we may refer to it as perfect for the sake of emphasis – such a thing is customary. Yesterday, I experienced a day that was wonderful enough to incline me towards exaggeration, and I am confident that if any traveler were to follow in my footsteps, then they too would feel the same. It was, in all honesty, a perfect day.
08:30 - Breakfast at Grái Kötturinn – American Style Grái Kötturinn is a tiny place with a big heart sitting on the lower end of Hverfisgata. It has a reputation as one of the best breakfast/brunch places in town. Over the years I have found that its reputation is accurate. But I was keen on putting it to the test once more. When I arrived, I looked over an unassuming green sheet of paper featuring a drawing of a cat and was told that it was the menu. I did not have the appetite for The Truck (a popular and hearty dish) and so I ordered Eggs and Bacon instead – which is a combination of breakfast stuff that includes eggs, bacon, toast and potatoes. I gobbled it up like a famished American who had not eaten in two hours, before washing it all down with some Coca-Cola. The reputation of Grái Kötturinn remains intact.
12:00 - Biking around Reykjavík – Ernest Hemingway Borgarhjól rents bikes for a reasonable price. You can rent a bike for 4 hours and pay only 2,600 ISK. That comes to 650 ISK per hour. A lawyer will charge you ten times as much and be half as fun. Also, the lawyer is more likely to be doing all the riding. Anyhow, I rented a bike and took myself on a tour of the city. There is no better way to see a city than by way of the bike. In the words of Hemingway: “One can see a city in a car but a car is less pleasant. It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle.” I went down Laugavegur; past the pond; through the west-side of town; through the harbor; and finally back to Hverfisgata. It was wonderful.
15:00 - Bæjarins Beztu – Hot-Dog Heaven After a long bike ride, one gets hungry. No other food offers as much in the way of energy as the hot dog. I have no science to corroborate this statement but I stand by it nonetheless. There is usually a queue at Bæjarins Beztu considering that it is our most famous restaurant; Reykjavík is home to a number of master chefs who have fearlessly pushed the limits of the culinary art-form – but they cannot ascend to the heights of the Bæjarins Beztu hot-dog chef. I ordered “tvær með öllu” (two with everything), which means that the dogs came with ketchup, sweet brown mustard, raw onions, fried onions and remoulade (a sauce made from mayonnaise and relish). Also I ordered a Coke. The Coke is Iceland’s national beverage, as dear to us as Brennivín but less lethal. Eurovision is over. I am glad. I had high hopes for Iceland’s entry but she did not make it past the semi-final. She was nervous and her vocal chords suffered on account of her nerves: the notes that they produced were off-key – and wobbled through the air like rickety arrows, missing their target by some margin. In the end the Swedes won. The Swedes have begun to understand Eurovision. They have begun to understand Eurovision in the way that a man begins to understand a foreign language. They chose their most symmetrical specimen, stuffed him into a taut shirt and leather pants, surrounded him with a classroom of animated schoolchildren, and made him dance around joyously while simultaneously making impressive and confident gestures with his hands. Also he was admirably tanned. I suppose it was a foregone conclusion. But enough about Eurovision. Eurovision is simply an elaborate and costly excuse for getting drunk. Now that Eurovision is over, we must begin to look for new excuses. And look no further: SKE provides semi-functioning alcoholics with plenty of good reasons for getting inebriated. Flip through these pages and pick the one you like best. In the immortal words of Charles Baudelaire be always drunken. Peace !
Ske Editors: ritstjorn@ske.is Advertisement: auglysingar@ske.is Interview & Editorial: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Interviewee: Stjúri Sigurðsson Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson Photographs from Saga Festival: The Show Shutter Printing: Ísafoldarprentsmiðja Design & Layout: Hlynur Ingólfsson, Lifandi verkefni ehf.
16:00 - The Phallological Museum – Public Privates Situated on the upper Laugavegur is the Icelandic Phallological Museum, wherein diverse and dismembered phalluses are gathered together for public display. For a meager 1250 ISK, one may penetrate the museum and stand erect among its various members – marveling at nature’s inimitable imagination. At the front desk, visitors are furnished with a slim booklet, which gives a systematic account of the museum’s features. I wandered among the many members of the museum for the better part of an hour, while discovering various and curious facts. It was a strange experience. But I left the museum with a greater appreciation for the shape and proportionality of my own penis: it is neither too long nor too slender like the bull’s, neither is it tree-brown like the elephant’s.
21:00 - Kaffibarinn – Feel Good After a long day, there is no better way to unwind than the bar. The bar is a holy place for artists and idlers. It is where we attune ourselves to the infinite and talk nonsense, alternately. There are many bars in Iceland but few as famous as Kaffibarinn. Kaffibarinn was the main character of Hallgrímur Helgason’s cult novel 101 Reykjavík and also the place where Damon Albarn used to hang out (I like to think that Damon got the idea for Gorillaz’ “Feel Good” in the bar but I am most likely mistaken). Anyhow, I positioned myself by the bar counter and listened to the DJ spin some tunes. After an unreasonable amount of beer, I eventually became courageous enough to dance. I danced mostly with a fat Icelander, who was always hugging me and whispering strange things into my ear. I made it home at ‘round about midnight. It was a perfect day.
3 What’s happening
Why in the world would you settle for average? E N N E M M / S Í A / N M 6 74 7 0
When there is Slippbarinn
Ask anyone. Slippbarinn is hands-down the number one place for cocktails in Reykjavík. But our delicious menu is still a relatively well-kept secret. Healthy, fresh and hearty dishes with a creative twist, from the best ingredients, at affordable prices. You‘ve met our artists behind the bar, now see what our artists in the kitchen can do.
For reservation call +354 560 8080 or slippbarinn@icehotels.is Icelandair hotel Reykjavík Marina Mýrargata 2 101 Reykjavík Sími +354 560 8080 www.icelandairhotels.is
Music
4
What’s happening
Máni Orrason Release Concert Máni Orrason released his debut album Repeating Patterns on April 10th. To celebrate the album’s release he will be holding a concert at Austurbær on May 29th.
Boogie Trouble Ball Boogie Trouble has enjoyed some popularity recently, playing rhythmic, upbeat and fresh pop music that is heavily influenced by the music of the ‘70s and ‘80s – especially disco. The group was founded in 2011 and since then it has been inspiring dance-averse Icelanders to rise from their seats and boogie – a feat which usually requires no small amount of hard liquor and schnapps. Where: Húrra When: Thursday, May 29th, 22:00 Price: Free
Máni Orrason is 17 years old and lives in Spain with his family. Máni was catapulted into the public eye last fall with the release of his song Fed All My Days, which reached #1 on the radio station Rás 2 and became extremely popular. Subsequently, Máni was nominated in one category at the Icelandic Music Awards: newcomer of the year, and in two categories at the Listener’s Choice Awards: newcomer of the year and video of the year (for his video to Fed All My Days). Afterwards, Máni released the song Miracle Due at the beginning of 2015, which has also received considerable air play. This summer, Máni is due to perform at the Secret Solstice Festival as well as other local festivals as well. This fall, Máni and his band will be touring Europe where he will be performing at four big festivals in Germany, along with other venues. The release concert at Austurbær will be Máni’s first big concert in Iceland. He will be performing songs from the album Repeating Patterns along with some new material as well. Opening for Máni Orrason, will be Axel Flóvent, who has been in the spotlight recently, having just released his EP album Forest Fires on May 2nd. Where: Austurbær (Snorrabraut 37) When: Thursday, May 29th, 21:00 Price: 2,500 ISK Additional Information: www.midi.is
Disco Owes Me Money #4 Steindór Jónsson plays Disco, Italo Disco, Funk, Boogie, Soul and other related music from vinyl and cds at Húrra right after Boogie Trouble wraps up. This will be one hell of a program! Where: Húrra When: Thursday, May 29th, 23:30 Price: Free
Maya Dunietz at the Reykjavík Arts Festival
DJ Kári & KGB Friends and all-round nice guys Dj Kári and KGB will be sharing Paloma on May 29th. DJ Kári just celebrated his 40th birthday recently and is still at the height of his career. It remains to be seen which one of them will be performing at the ground floor and which one of them will be performing upstairs, but one thing is for certain: quality music will be played on all storeys. Where: Paloma When: Thursday, May 29th, 23:30 Price: Free
For the second year in a row the Reykjavík Arts Festival and Mengi cultural house will collaborate on a concert during the festival. Mengi has for the past few years run a vibrant program: boosting Reykjavík’s cultural life with various events, concerts and musical happenings. Mengi has also received nominations for the Icelandic Music Awards and the DV Culture Prize. This year, Mengi will host four concerts during the festival. Four Saturdays in a row, women musicians, who are either at the height of their career or taking their first steps in the music world, will appear at Mengi.
feedback and a multi-dimensional electro acoustic sound layer. This work was created for Palais de Tokyo, 2014 (Video & Sound by Daniel Meir).
In her new solo performance, Maya Dunietz explores space through airwaves. Through voice, piano and a unique projection technique Dunietz plays with layers – layers of sound, image and consciousness. The piece includes an exploration of spirals and loops and deals with the materialization of sound. Coming from the notion that music is movement of air in space, Dunietz is creating a multi-sensual experience. For this new piece Dunietz developed unique technologies including a tiny wireless mouth-speaker, projections of body-on-body, acoustic
Dunietz also performs regularly around the world playing free improvisation and has played with numerous artists such as John Butcher, Zeena Parkins, Ghedaliah Tazartes, David Moss and Steve noble, to name a few.
Maya Dunietz, born in 1981, is a composer, pianist and sound artist. Her work runs the gamut from composing for ensembles and choirs, performing as a pianist and singer, creating performance and sound installations and building electronic instruments. Dunietz founded the experimental vocal ensemble Givol Choir and is a member of the Israeli band Habiluim.
Where: Mengi When: Friday, May 30th, 21:00 Price: 3,000 ISK Additional Information: www.mid.is, www.mengi.net
5 What’s happening
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´
Music
6
What’s happening
alt-J One of the world’s most popular bands – alt-J, will be performing at the Vodafone stadium on June 2nd. Alt-j has been touring the world, selling out arena after arena, as they follow up on the release of their album This is All Yours, which was nominated for a Grammy. In many places the demand has been so great that concerts have been relocated to bigger venues in order to accommodate eager fans. Alt-J was founded in 2007 and released its first album An Awesome Wave in 2012. The album was awarded the prestigious Mercury award and was chosen as the album of the year in many countries in the world – including Iceland. The album featured such songs as Breezeblocks, Matilda and Tesselate. Their new album, This is All Yours, was released last September and has received favorable reviews by critics and fans alike. This concert will really be something. Where: Vodafone stadium When: Tuesday, June 2nd, 20:00 Price: 10,500 ISK Additional Information: www.midi.is
Lára Rúnars Release Concert Lára Rúnars’s release concert will be held at Fríkirkjan (The Free Church of Reykjavík) on June 4th. Lára recently released her album Þel, which was a collaboration with Stefán Örn Gunnlaugsson. Three songs from the album have been released and have found their way to the top of Iceland’s music charts. Lára will be performing alongside of the following musicians: Arnar Þór Gíslason: Drums Birkir Rafn Gíslason: Guitar Guðni Finnsson: Bass Þorbjörn Sigurðsson: Keyboards Rósa Guðrún Sveinsdóttir: Vocals and Woodwind A brass trio and a small women’s choir will also perform. Lára Rúnars grew up on the booming rhythms of the band Grafík and the South-American guitar music of her father, who later introduced her to such artists as Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, Joni Mitchell and Nick Cave. When Lára was a teenager she began recording poetry into ProTools, which resulted in her debut album Standing Still in 2003. A year later, Lára opened for Damien Rice, who later collaborated with Lára on her album Þögn released in 2006. Þögn was influenced by the likes of Stina Nordestam, Blonde Redhead and the Cardigans, among others. Lára’s music took a new turn in her third album Surprise. The album was a hit in Iceland, which kindled interest in her music abroad. The album’s success resulted in bookings at festivals such as The
Great Escape, Eurosonic, Spot Festival, alongside of a special concert for Q Magazine in London, where Lára opened for Amy MacDonald. Lára’s fourth album, Moment, was released in 2012 and it revealed a slightly darker and more provocative side of the artist. According to Lára she was inspired on the album by strong women artists such as PJ Harvey, Björk and Bat For Lahses, whose influence are apparent in her melodic, melancholic indie pop. In the summer of 2013, Lára Rúnars toured Iceland in a ship made from oak (Húni) alongside of Mugison, Jónas Sig, Ómar Guðjóns, Arnar Þór Gíslason and Guðni Finnsson. This resulted in the adventures of the crew of Húni, which received substantial press coverage in Iceland. For the past year Lára has been working on an album with Stefán Örn Gunnlaugsson: a dreamy, adventurous project called Þel. Unlike Lára’s previous albums, Þel is entirely written and performed in Icelandic. The album will be released on May 27th. Where: Fríkirkjan (The Free Church of Reykjavík) When: Thursday, June 4th, 21:00 Price: 2,500 ISK Additional Information: www.midi.is
Beatle Madness at Grensás With a Little Help from my Friends!
The Friends of Grensás (an organization that supports the rehabilitation center at Grensás in Iceland) along with a group of talented performers have joined forces for a benefit concert at Háskólabío on Saturday, May 30th. All of the proceeds will go to the Friends of Grensás, which has supported the rehabilitation center at Grensás for years, with artist Edda Heiðrún Backman at the forefront. The program, which is based on the songs of Lennon and McCartney, will be diverse and fun. Many musicians will be performing and in the foyer of the building there will be a historical exhibition. The evening will be hosted by Helgi Pétursson and Bogi Ágústssoon with performers Björn Thoroddsen, Ari Jónsson, Eyþór Ingi Gunnlaugsson & Lóvísa Fjeldsted, Domus Vox choir, the band Á Bak Við Eyrað, Ólafía Hrönn, Jóhanna Guðrún Jónsdóttir, Þuríður Sigurðardóttir and Örn Gauti Jóhannsson. The house band includes Óskar Þormarsson (drums), Ingvar Alfreðsson (keyboard), Ingi Björn Ingason (bass) with vocals by the Jón Vídalín Gospel Choir. Band director is Davíð Sigurgeirsson. Let’s have some fun together while supporting a good cause. Where: Háskólabíó When:May 30th, 18:00 Price: 4,700 ISK Additional Information: www.midi.is
Under the Sea (Concert) Wednesday, June 3rd, DJ flugvél og geimskip celebrates the release of her third album, Nótt á Hafsbotni (Night at the Bottom of the Ocean) at MENGI. The event is described thusly (sans crazy emoticons): “Guests can expect a CRAZY PARTY: lots of decorations, unique refreshments and the best sort of electronic horror music. A TRUE CELEBRATION for the eyes, ears, mouth and nose! A surprise happening will pleasantly surprise guests and therefore no more will be said at this point. The theme of the new album, as well as the concert, is the deep ocean and guests are asked to bear that in mind. It would be nice to see everyone participate in
the theme in some way so that the atmosphere and the experience will be as amazing as possible. Inspiration for dressing and getting into the mood: darkness; aquamarine and deep blue; octopi and jelly fish; shine and shimmer; sand; seasnakes; fluorescent strange fish; Atlantis; and a portal to other worlds. Hip-Hop Hudson will warm the crowd up with a few old hits. He’s and old-timer and plays oldfashion Hip-Hop mixed with hockey music. Tickets sold by the entrace.” Where: Mengi (Óðinsgata 2) When: Wednesday, June 3rd, 21:00 Price: 2,000 ISK
7 What’s happening
THIS TUESDAY TICKETS AT MIDI.IS
8
What’s happening
“Everybody is equal once they sit down in that chair. Once the barber cloth is draped over them it doesn’t matter who they are. They become a head with some hair on it. And then we talk.” Interview: Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson Photographs: Allan Sigurðsson
9 What’s happening
This Saturday, the annual Tweed Ride will be taking place in Reykjavík. Every year the nation’s most dapper gentleman and finest ladies mount their bicycles and ride around the city in full dandy regalia. Beginning at the top of Skólavörðuholt, by Hallgrímskirkja, they make their way down to the pond, turn southwards and head in the direction of Hotel Natura. At Hotel Natura they stop for refreshments (in the form of ice-tea and lemonade), and engage in pleasant conversation, before continuing their journey through the westside of Reykjavík and arriving, finally, at KEX hostel. At KEX, a democratic election is held to determine the nation’s most dapper gentleman, its most spiffy lady and its most dashing bicycle. The event is sponsored by Herrafataverslun Kormáks & Skjaldar, Reiðhjólaverzlunin Berlin (bicycle store), Geysir Shop and KEX hostel. In order to prepare ourselves mentally for this fantabulous event, SKE sat down and spoke with Stjúri Sigurðsson –Iceland’s most celebrated barber. Stjúri has a stately beard, a beautiful mane and adorns himself always in the finest of clothes. If you ever come across a dignified and impressive beard in the city of Reykjavík then chances are that Stjúri has had some part in it: He either trimmed it or inspired it, and very often both. As the proprietor of the barbershop at Herrafataverslun Kormáks og Skjaldar, Stjúri is not only a prodigiously talented barber, but a thoroughly wonderful human being as well – and one of the most skilled conversationalist that our tiny island has ever produced. This is the fourth annual Tweed Ride, how would you describe it? It’s just a fun, laid-back tour around the city. People dress themselves in classic European fashion – in that style that originated in the beginning of the 20th century. So there aren’t any requirements that must be fulfilled – anyone can partake? Yes. And it’s a competition – but it isn’t about whose first – but rather who looks the most spectacular. Stjúri goes on to describe the Tweed Ride circuit, which was delineated in the introduction. Then our conversation segues into his barbering ... You’re Iceland’s most famous barber – why is that? Why are people so keen on sitting in Stjúri’s chair? I couldn’t answer that. That would be too uncomfortable. I don’t know: maybe I’m just that good (Stjúri laughs). If you’ve been doing something for 20 years, then you must have learned something. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be doing it. As a writer, I think a lot about writing and style. Whenever I look at a piece of writing I experience it very differently from other people. Is it the same for you as a barber? Yes, definitely. I automatically hone in on people’s hair. I’m not necessarily thinking consciously about it or being judgmental – unless I’m at work. My eyes just unconsciously focus on people’s hair and facial hair. I’m never like whoa, he’s got a terrible haircut! Nothing like that. I mean, everything’s already been done. Everything has come full circle since I began. Everything that happened for the past 50 years, even before me, has come back into style since I was a kid. Well, maybe not the Liberty Spikes –mullet combo: I just caught the tail end of that as a kid.
So there are few things that surprise you? Yes, it’s more like damn, that’s back again (in a lamenting tone) or: yes! that’s back again (enthusiastically). It all depends on your preference. One thing that always comes to mind when I think about barbers is small talk. I remember a scene from a movie with Jeff Goldblum, in which he takes his seat in the barber’s chair, and as soon as the barber begins engaging in small talk, Goldblum interrupts the barber and says vehemently: “No small talk”. I have often dreamt of uttering that line, that is, whenever a barber’s small talk isn’t pleasant – but I am too courteous. How do you approach small talk?
nor did anyone around me. But as soon as I started barbering I was like yes, a beard is the way to go. I used to offer people a shave but nowadays I tell them no way: You can take your business elsewhere. This is something that you’re allowed to say after 20 years on the job. You can tell it how it is. You’ve earned that right. You don’t have to be a yes-man any longer. Stjúri then speaks on the art of barbering …
It isn’t about being the best. I’ve never claimed to be the best. What’s most important is a genuine interest in people: in everybody - from the banker to the bum - and everyone in between. Hipsters, aunts: it doesn’t matter. Everybody is equal once they sit down in that chair. Once the barber Well, I have never experienced something like that, but, cloth is draped over them it doesn’t matter who they of course, Jeff Goldblum is one of the craziest dudes are. They become a head with some hair on it. And out there. No one has ever said to me vehemently no then we talk. I’ve never become bored with that part small talk! Very often people just don’t say anything, of the job. I’m always ready to talk to people. If you’re and so you have to respect that. If they don’t respond ever reluctant to converse, whether about inseams, then I refrain. But I’m from the country and so I’m in shrimp production, God or astrophysics, then you’ve got a problem. There is no the habit of asking where “The clean shave was topic that I won’t discuss. We are you from? (In Iceland, are always solving the world’s old people and country nonsense. I’ve always felt problems, me and my clients. folk commonly inquire That’s an everyday thing. But about one’s people. It’s charming). This is me in that men should be bearded. you can’t fake that interest: You would go insane. a nutshell. If people from I don’t know where that Reykjavík sit down on my I tell Stjúri about a recent chair then I’m always a little conviction comes from. My news story in the US, in disappointed – because it’s which a client told his not the same. But Iceland father didn’t have a beard barber that he was taking is such a little country that his business elsewhere after you can always find some neither did anyone around being disappointed with his connection, which is fun. haircut. The barber reacted That’s what I enjoy about me. But as soon as I started badly and bit his finger off. the job. That’s why I’ve (Stjúri laughs). Then I ask him been doing it for 20 years. barbering I was like yes, a about customer loyalty and whether he gets upset when So you’ve never done beard is the way to go.” people cheat on him with anything else? other barbers. I’ve tried. It’s often the customers who become more sheepish Stjúri proceeds to relate a short version of his than us, the barbers. biography. We learn that he was born in Blönduós and lived in the countryside till the age of six. He did Yeah, it’s harder on them, maybe. all of his elementary schooling in Hveragerði. At age 15 he went to Sweden, where he lived for 5 years. I’ve been so busy that if anyone goes elsewhere it’s While in Sweden he studied barbering. He then probably because they couldn’t book an appointment. moved back home for one year and then to Denmark So that’s understandable. The only time that I get upset for 2 years. After that, he returned to Iceland and is if people put on a hat before leaving my barbershop – even if it’s cold. I say what are you doing? I just cut bought a barber shop in 1998 … your hair! That is the highest insult that you can pay I bought the barber shop at Hótel Loftleiðir and lost my your barber. mind. I quit. I became a steel-binder during the boom years (the years that preceded the Icelandic financial I then inexplicably begin talking about Seinfeld (it’s crisis). I experienced all that madness. Because in like tourettes). 2002, when I quit barbering, I had bought a house, a company, cars – but owned nothing. I bought it all on There was this scene in Seinfeld, in which Jerry was credit. But then I said f#$k this and sold everything cheating on his barber with the barber’s apprentice, and became a steel binder to pay my debts. So I did in his own apartment. The barber found out and that full-time until I managed to pay everything back. things ended quite badly. Then in 2006, I started barbering again. After that I could afford to be a barber. It’s not a high-paying job I experienced something in Sweden. I worked at a farm with this old farmer. He had a beard down to his (Stjúri laughs). stomach and hair down to his back. Also, he was a I just read an old interview where you said that the cripple. This sounds like the beginning of some bizarre banking crisis could be traced back to the shaving joke, but it’s not: People’s necks used to turn when habits of the bankers, that is, they were too clean- they drove by him. Anyhow, I asked him to hire me and when I told him that I was Icelandic he said that shaven and therefore everything went to shit. he had read all of the sagas – and started talking about The clean shave was nonsense. I’ve always felt that them enthusiastically. I pretended to be well-versed men should be bearded. I don’t know where that in the sagas and he hired me. Later, he discovered that conviction comes from. My father didn’t have a beard I hadn’t read any of them and he scolded me: you call
10
What’s happening
“It isn’t about being the best. I’ve never claimed to be the best. What’s most important is a genuine interest in people: in everybody - from the banker to the bum - and everyone in between.”
yourself an Icelander! he said. Eventually, some days later, when our conversation touched upon my studies, and I told him that I was studying to become a barber – he was kind of jolted, and he said you won’t be cutting my hair! And I said no problem. And then he told me that his barber had died 20 years ago and that he hadn’t had his hair cut since. (Both of us laugh heartily). Which I think is brilliant. My barber died and I won’t get my hair cut any more. I think that story had a real impact on me. What a principled guy: He only goes to one barber. This describes that feeling of cheating on your barber. It’s that feeling in its purest, most beautiful form. He was like Gísli at Uppsalir (a famous Icelandic hermit). He was called the hippie, because he had long hair, and then he became bald. That’s always been a good look. The skullet: yes that’s classic. I will sport the skullet one day. One day I’ll lose my hair. Personally, I have become very fond of my hair and hope that I never lose it. I love my hair, but I have a kind of fetish for the combover. I hope that it becomes fashionable. I haven’t started balding yet, but I’m expecting it to happen eventually.
When that happens I am thinking pony tail and a visible bald head. The comb-over was never fashionable. You know why? Because those who have a comb-over aren’t bald: not in their opinion. They wouldn’t know what you were talking about if you confronted them: What are you talking about!? They’d say. The comb-over is the highest form of self-denial. But I don’t want it to be. I want people to come to me and say I’ve begun to lose my hair, and I’m thinking about getting a comb-over. And I’ll say sure, let’s take a look. And I’ll show them pictures of the Jack Nicholson comb-over: hair pulled straight back – or the Nick Cave comb-over, who, for the past 20 years has had a receding hairline and a kind of bird’s-nest at the back of his head – but he doesn’t care. He still looks cool. I have faith in the comb-over. One day it’ll happen. All strange things become fashionable, eventually.
latex boots, then I would say no, you’ve gone too far. But it has to be pretty extreme for me to have a problem with it. But when it gets to that extreme I’ll say no. And then I’ll have become that conservative old person. So what you’re saying is that even though I tell myself that I’ll never be that guy, I will be. Because what the youth is doing today is the equivalent of g-strings and latex boots to the old people? Even though in our opinion it’s much less extreme? Yes, everything that the youth does is the equivalent of a man wearing latex boots and a g-string in public. (We laugh). So automatically, because that’s where we draw the line: the younger generation is going to cross that line.
“The comb-over is the highest form of self-denial.”
Damn, you just f#$ked up my whole philosophy when you put it like that.
Our conversation then segues into youth culture, and I tell Stjúri that as a young rapper I used to wear baggy pants and a do-rag, and that, having participated in such outlandish fads, I feel that I am more open towards the whims of youth, and that I am impervious to conservatism. He leads me to an epiphany …
(Stjúri laughs.) Exactly. It doesn’t matter how cool we think we are – wearing our pants down to our heels, or Buffalo shoes, which I think no one enjoyed –the next generation will always push things further: they will always f#$k us up. That’s their duty, in the end.
I understand what you’re saying but: I have four kids. If I saw my son walking down Laugavegur in a g-string and
On that philosophical note, our conversation ends. What a lovely guy.
11 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
Exhibitions
12
What’s happening
Bicalutamide
Hvirfill Hvirfill is an exhibition that forms a part of the Reykjavík Arts Festival program. On the exhibition’s website it is described thusly: “Someone kicks a stone that hits another stone giving it the energy to bounce further, hit the third stone and that’s it? A game of hoop and stick where the hoop beats the stick. In the gutter, the images are sucked ever closer to the swirl, eventually clogging the drain. Then you put drain cleaner down the sink and it’s called mister proper.”
Kari Ósk Grétudóttir Ege was born in Reykjavik in 1981. She graduated from the Iceland Academy of the Arts in 2007. Since graduating, she has participated in group exhibitions, written a play and articles, studied art theory and taught art. Where: Týsgallerí (Týsgata 3) When: Opens May 22nd at 17:00, continues until June 7th Opening hours: Thursdays - Saturdays 13:00 - 17:00
Recently, an exhibition by Steingrímur Eyfjörð was opened at the Reykjavík Art Museum: “Kunstschlager has just gotten wind of new artworks by Steingrímur Eyfjörð, or that is, old artworks that have been given new life. Like with his older works, the artist draws on his personal experience in the creation of artworks that are heavily influenced by his condition and mental state during their creation. The artist’s subjective field of work underlies these pieces where the various time periods in the artist’s life converge: past, present and future; the subconscious, mythology, femininity and death itself are all subjects that flow into one another. What exactly Bicalutamide is and how it relates to the artwork Grýla is for the observer to decide, or rather to sense – by way of a kind of physical hallucination – or blind spot, which reason can in no way understand.” 25% of the sales go to the Icelandic Cancer Society. Where: Reykjavík Art Museum, D-gallery When: Now until until June 4th
Guerrilla Girls at Bíó Paradís Guerrilla Girls have been appearing in full jungle regalia and shaking things up with their lecture series for years. They have held talks at schools, museums and a variety of institutions, having appeared in most of the American states and many other countries as well. The lecture, which runs to about 90 minutes, will be followed by a discussion and a Q&A. Guerrilla Girls will take the audience on a tour of the ideas behind their posters, books and activism that focuses primarily on inequality in art, film and politics. Where: Bíó Paradís When: Thursday, June 4th at 17:00 Price: 3,500 ISK
The concept of the restaurant is "casual fun dining" and we prepare what we would call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.
Sköpun Bernskunnar A Cooperative Exhibition by Schoolchildren and Artists
SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 40 · 101 REYKJAVÍK · TEL.+354 517 7474 · KOLRESTAURANT.IS
Sköpun Bernskunnar is an independent sequel to an exhibition that was held three years ago at the gallery of the visual arts society (Mydlistarfélagið). Participants are students from the pre-school and elementary school in Akureyri along with 10 professional artists. The theme of the exhibition is children and children’s creativity, but in addition to these themes each school is free to choose their own related theme, e.g. toys, games etc. The idea behind the exhibition is to blend together artworks by professional artists who are focusing on the subject of childhood, in a general sense, with the
artworks and toys of children. The directors of the exhibition aim to turn it into an annual event with new participants each year. Artists: Ólafur Sveinsson, Rósa Júlíusdóttir and Karl Guðmundsson, Bergþór Morthens, Þóra Sólveig Bergsteinsdóttir and Erwin van der Werve, Samúel Jóhannsson, Guðrún Vera Hjartardóttir, Hjördís Frímann, Hrönn Einarsdóttir. Where: Akureyri Art Museum (Ketilhús) When: Exhibition is ongoing until June 14th Price: Free
13 What’s happening
Exhibitions
14
What’s happening
Samspil Birting Birting (Illumination) is an exhibition of works by contemporary Icelandic artists inspired by Gerður Helgadóttir’s (1928-1975) stainedglass windows. Gerður’s stained-glass windows can be found in Skálholt Cathedral, Kópavogur Church and elsewhere. The exhibition aims to consider places such as museums and churches, and the rituals that take place there (whether formal, casual or solemn), given that these rituals clearly influence the perception and experience of the observer. Gerður’s window designs for Kópavogur Church are characterized by rhythmic forms and a color palette that creates a shrine of flowing shapes without any overt religious symbolism – the aim is more to touch the observer at a universal, emotional level. Ecclesiastical or religious themes will, by the same token, give way to broader approaches, bringing out the universal, human, spiritual, phenomenological or mystical character of the works of contemporary artists. Participating artists, in addition to Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1974): Guðrún Kristjánsdóttir, Erla Þórarinsdóttir, Guðrún Benónýsdóttir, Hekla Dögg Jónsdóttir, Dodda Maggý, Lilja Birgisdóttir, Katrin Agnes Klar and Ingibjörg Sigurjónsdóttir. Curator: Kristín Dagmar Jóhannesdóttir. The exhibition is a part of the 29th Reykajvík Arts Festival and celebrates the centennial of women’s right to vote in Iceland, which was granted in 1915.
Samspil (Interplay) sheds new light on the connection between Danish architect Finn Juhl (1912-1989) and Sigurjón Ólafsson between the years 1940-1945. Both of them were pioneers in their respective fields and blazed trails in their experiments with form and material. The exhibition will, among other things, display furniture that Finn Juhl exhibited at Snedkerlaugets Møbeludstilling in Copenhagen in 1940 and 1941: the Pelikanen chair and the Poeten sofa, alongside of sculptures by Sigurjón that Finn Juhl selected in
conjunction with his own furniture. Over time, the works of Finn Juhl have enjoyed great popularity all over the world. The Danish company Onecollection, which has the sole rights worldwide to produce and market the furniture of Finn Juhl, will be funding the exhibition. Curators: Æsa Sigurjónsdóttir and Birgitta Spur Where: Sigurjón Ólafsson Art Museum When: Ongoing until the end of August
100 Coats at Frakkastígur A Century of Women’s Suffrage – Where Do We Stand? At Frakkarstígur 9, in the backyard; on the walls of the house; and in its garden, artists will be creating artworks that call for a conversation on gender equality. The artists Hallgrímur Helgason, Helga Þórsdóttir, Hildur Hákonardóttir, Hlynur Hallsson, Jóna Hlíf Halldórsdóttir, Ragnheiður Jónsdóttir, Libia Castro og Ólafur Ólafsson are not unfamiliar with the political side of art. They will be holding an outdoor exhibition at Frakkarstígur 9 with the centennial of women’s suffrage as their theme. The undertones of the exhibition are quite dark, seeing as there is no consensus on where we currently stand on gender equality. 100 years have passed, an entire century: are women and men equal when it comes to governing and making decisions in a societal context? Or will the struggle for equality continue forever? Curator: Rakel Steinarsdóttir
Where: Kópavogur Art Museum (Gerðasafn), Hamraborg 4, 200 Kópavogur When: May 15th – August 2nd at 20:00 Price: 500 ISK
When: Begins May 14th, ends June 7th Where: Frakkarstígur 9 (backyard and garden) Opening Hours: Every day from 10:00 – 18:00
Gourmet Experience
- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is
15 What’s happening
ICELANDIC ARTSCAPES
The artist of Nature Tolli grew up in Reykjavík and rural Iceland, surrounded by cold seas, amidst broad glacier valleys and stern mountains. An Icelander’s relationship with Nature
Tolli Art Gallery is located at the harbour area in the old part of Reykjavík (next to Farmers Market) and there you can find Tolli´s paintings, available in many sizes. All paintings, especially the larger ones are readily sent in special packages to customers worldwide, arranged by the gallery.
is often primal, brutal and grave. Yet Tolli’s appreciation of his country is also subtle and sensitive, portrayed by fleeting textures. He employs oil colours in bold shades, but with the eider-light touch of a water colourist. The images Tolli portrays could be ancient or modern, but they remain timeless, entangled in the powerful authenticity of the artist´s broad vision. “What makes my country so spell-binding,” explains the artist, “is not simply the
Whales of Iceland
Tolli art gallerí Old harbour Harpa
landscape forms, extraordinary though they are. It is the Arctic light.” Light is life and in Tolli’s world it becomes dynamic and daring, dramatic and eternal.
City Hall Tjörnin
Visit us and enjoy good art in our comfortable and elegant gallery. You are most welcome! Art reproduction and posters We also offer fine reprints and posters in convenient hard-case tubes that fits in most suitcases.
Hólmaslóð 2 . 107 Reykjavík . tolli@tolli.is
16
What’s happening
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
17 What’s happening
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
Food tips
18
What’s happening
Publichouse (Laugavegur 24, 101 Reykjavík)
Lebowski Bar Lebowski Bar is a concept-driven diner inspired by the Cohen brother’s masterpiece The Big Lebowski. Located in downtown Reykjavík on Laugavegur, Lebowski Bar offers a selection of juicy hamburgers along with other tasty treats. It is the perfect place for when you want to combine a necessary food-stop with football or good music. SKE ordered a succulent bacon burger by the name of Walter. He lived up to our expectations for he was composed of crispy bacon and tasty beef. We topped it all off with an ice-cold vanilla milkshake that really tied the whole meal together (get it?).
SKE checked out Public House – Gastropub, which opened earlier this month on Laugavegur 24 (where Lemon was previously located). Public House offers a diverse collection of small dishes with a Japanese twist –all of which go especially well with drinks. Public House offers 10 beers on tap along with saké cocktails. Agents from SKE sampled a total of four dishes: one called I’m Trapped: slow-cooked lamb shanks in a love-ball (ástarpungur); then we tasted chicken a la Japan: a deep-fried chicken marinated in yogurt served with blue cheese; next we sampled a Japanese pizza topped with goatcheese, beetroots, fig jam, truffle-ponzu sauce and chilli; and finally, we tried the Black Slider: a beef hamburger in black buns, which was the highlight of our experience. All in all, we had a lovely time. The food was savory and original and the atmosphere was cool. Also the service was top-notch.
www.lebowski.is
www.publichouse.is
(Laugavegur 20 a, 101 Reykjavík)
101 Hotel (Hverfisgata 10, 101 Reykjavík)
VEGAMÓT Elegant but casual two floor Bistro located in the Heart of the City on Vegamótarstígur.
www.vegamot.is
101 Hotel is located on the corner of Hverfisgata and Ingólfstræti. Recently the hotel’s restaurant updated its menu and our agents at SKE decided to drop by to try it out. When we entered the establishment, we were greeted by a kind of a Friday-night vibe: a DJ was spinning some tunes as guests sipped quality wine. We then looked over the new menu and observed that it offered a variety of bar snacks. Having tried some we discoverd that they went
perfectly with a glass of wine. The entrées were no less impressive with a great selection of quality meat and fish. We decided to go all in. As an appetizer we ordered a huge bowl of lobster that was served with garlic sauce, lemon and homemade pita bread. We followed that with a beef fillet that was served with salad and a choice of potatoes or French fries. We were also made to choose between the Bernaise or the redwine sauce but we could not do
it. We tried both of the sauces and they tasted fabulous. The French fries went better with the beef in our opinion. All in all, the food was a real home-run. Just like the new interior design and the atmosphere, the dishes were clear-cut and allowed the ingredients to speak for themselves. www.101hotel.is
19 What’s happening
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
20
What’s happening
Tindar - Skessuhorn
Vængurinn (The Wing) Design: Vík Prjónsdóttir
Design: Elísabet Sara Emilsdóttir
The power, grace and color of the bird wing protects and dazzles. The Wing scarf is a tribute to the playful power of the bird kingdom. Available in six bird-inspired color combinations.
Tindar are graphically-edited photographs of Icelandic mountains, with each photograph being limited to 15 copies. Each photograph is printed on high-quality 180gr photo paper and the photographs are delivered in beautiful white paper cylinders (each copy is specially marked). Tindar is available at Hrím, Mýrin and Gullabúið.
www.vikprjonsdottir.com
www.hrim.is
Raven Bird Hanger with a Hook Design: Ingibjörg Hanna Bjarnadóttir
Sheep’s Tie Design: Mokollur
IslandCoasters Design: Færið
The Raven Bird Hanger with a Hook is the perfect coat hanger on which to hang your favorite clothes instead of hiding them away in drawers. The Raven Bird Hanger with a Hook is a new, more traditional version of the originals Raven Coat Hanger: it has the same shape but the steel wire has been replaced with a traditional hook.
Sheep’s Tie is knitted using wool from the Icelandic sheep: the animal that has formed the backbone of Icelandic life since the time of the country’s settlement. The tie is available either in solid colors or with a pattern.
The first set of IslandCoasters were designed with the art piece called “Portrait of Halldor Laxness”, which is a portrait of the Icelandic Nobel Laureate made by Erró, a highly-revered Icelandic pop artist. The IslandCoasters will protect your table from hot (or cold) spillages, forever and ever.
www.icelandicmarket.is
www.icelandicmarket.com
www.faerid.com
Keilir Candlestick Design: Guðrún Valdimarsdóttir Keilir is a candlestick made of mahogany wood and handpainted with matte-finish waterbased paint. It is available in small, medium and large and several different colors. The name comes from the Icelandic mountain Keilir, which was the inspiration behind the design. Never leave a candle burning unattended! www.gudrunvald.com
21 What’s happening
EXPLORE
LEARN
DISCOVER
Can’t catch the Nortern Lights? Don’t worry, we have already done it for you!
Visit us and enjoy our multimedia exhibition
OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 09.00–21.00
Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík - Near the old harbour Tel: (+354) 780 4500 - www.aurorareykjavik.is @aurorareykjavik
@aurorareykjavik
@aurorareykjavik
22
What’s happening What’s happening
Klifurhúsið (Bouldering Gym) Húrra for Laughs #5 Stand-up comedy nights at Húrra continue, this being the fifth time that comics perform at the stand-up series. Performers include: Andri Ívars Þórdís Nadia Salómon Smári Ragnar Hansson Hugleikur Dagsson
Klifurhúsið is a bouldering gym in Ármúli 23 in Reykjavík that also offers one small sport climbing wall. All you need is some comfortable gym clothes and some climbing shoes. If you do not have climbing shoes then Klifurhúsið will rent you a pair for a reasonable fee. If you’re a first-time climber then the staff will offer you some tips on how best
to begin. They say that if you have at least three functioning limbs then you are eligible. Klifurhúsið is a non-profit company that is operated by climbers for climbers. Everyone is welcome. www.klifurhusid.is
Where: Húrra When: Saturday, May 30th, 20:00 Price: Free
Skydiving Skydive.is operates out of Hella, which is about 95 km from downtown Reykjavík. It is not far from the volcanoes Eyjafjallajökull and Katla, both of which are great sights to see from the air. If you are brave enough, the company offers regular skydivers slots, Tandem jumps, along with regular IAD and AFF
rating courses. The skydiving season in Iceland runs from mid-April until the end of September. Check out their website for additional information. www.skydive.is
The Searchers Beneath the Nordic Sky We at SKE have just heard of a collaborative performance project featuring participants from Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland and that will be shown in Iceland and abroad. Participating in the performance are students, adolescents, teachers, circus artists, eurythmy performers, musicians, actors and dancers. The Searchers beneath the Nordic Sky is a performance art piece where different art-forms are brought together and flow into one another: a flow of music, speech, eurythmy, circus, theater, dance and song. This eclectic theatrical play asks big questions: Who are we? Where do we come from? Where are we heading? Where: Gamla Bíó (Ingólfstræti 2a) When: Saturday, May 30th, 20:00 (doors open 19:00) Price: 4,000 ISK (children 1,800 ISK) Tickets: leitendur.midi.stadf@gmail.com / www.menningarhus.is
Tweed Ride Reykjavík 2015 On May 30th, the annual Tweed Ride Reykjavik takes place. Beginning in front of Hallgrímskirkja Church, this fantastic ride takes you around the city in a most classy way. Participants are expected to dress in a dandy way: tweed, mustaches, etc. The ride ends at KEX Hostel, where there will be awards
for the best dressed man, best dressed woman and the most beautiful bicycle. Where: Hallgrímskirkja Church When: May 30th, 14:00 Price: Free
23 What’s happening
Ske
24
What’s happening
On Esjan Mt. Esja is that cool range of mountains just north of the capital, popular among those people who prefer to take the stairs – even in nature. There are generally two kinds of people who hike up the mountain: those who are fond of exercise and the outdoors, and those who care nothing for such things - but are dragged up the mountain anyway by members of the former class. I have clambered up the mountain a number of times and every time I have done so it has been at the importunity of some intrepid outdoorsman. These outdoorsman have been my friends at the start of the hike, but our friendship has never endured to the journey’s conclusion; by the time we reach horizontal ground I have made up my mind to find new friends – ones that are less inclined towards mountaineering, and more keen on the art of idle nothingness. Some have said that the mountain is a kind of panacea, and perhaps it is, for some; I once tried to cure a hangover with the mountain but ended up defiling some bushes with vomit, while simultaneously insulting a redwing who had taken refuge in the bush after hearing me approach. Despite these detractions I am quite fond of the mountain for it reminds me, in some ways, of my former girlfriend: large, unshapely and rarely inspiring the urge to mount her.
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
Party Every Night. Cocktails!
Live Music Every Night! 50 different kinds of beer.
Happy hour 4-7PM! Kitchen open from 11.00. Ribs, burgers, chicken wings!
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
LIFE IS SHORT - DRINK EARLY AUSTURSTRAETI 8 • REYKJAVIK
Barber Bar, Laugavegur 66-68 All days from 16:00 - 19:00 Beer - 650 ISK Wine - 650 ISK
25 What’s happening
GAMLA BÍÓ INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 2
5-7 JUNE FRIDAY.- SUNDAY.-TATTOO FESTIVAL 2015 DAY PASS 800kr. WEEKEND PASS 2000KR.
Fashion
26
What’s happening
Sindi Jensson
Hildur Ragnarsdóttir
Húrra Reykjavík
Einvera
Obsession: Black The Science of Pants: Picking a Style that Suits Your Build
Those who follow fashion will have noticed that recently tights pants have been very popular among men. Tight pants are also referred to as carrot legs, skinny legs or pencil legs. Recently, however, there has been a groundswell of sorts in the fashion world as many top designers and labels have begun to counteract this trend. Once again pants are becoming wider, and I don’t mean in a bell-bottoms fashion. Rather, we have begun to see a trend towards a straigther cut and a higher rise. I have always preached the idea that men should buy pants that suit their build, and I have often clarified my point by breaking it down into four cuts: skinnny, slim, regular and loose. For many, wearing skinny pants is becoming. But lately I have seen men wear pants that are way too tight and that simply don’t suit
them. It is therefore adviseable to measure the leg opening of your pants in order to figure out what suits you. Recently, I have suggested that the leg opening should be somewhere between 17-19 cm. If you find a suitable cut that is a good fit then you can always take your pants to a tailor and have the tailor widen them at the bottom. Fashion is, of course, ephemeral and everchanging, but during recent trips abroad I have noticed that top designers usually opt for a straighter, more classic cut. When it comes down to it, however, what is most important is choosing a cut that suits your build. Also, always buy pants from respected brands that are known for quality; more often than not, the most expensive pants that you buy end up being the most economical, for they are durable and last longer than the cheap ones.
We Icelanders tend to favor the color black when it comes to fashion – and I am no different. Black is a safe color. It goes with anything and can be worn during any occasion. But when summer comes around the desire to wear colors is awakened: and as well it should be. I believe that we should get out of our comfort zones and have the courage to wear colors. Trendy
colors this season are muted and beautiful tones such as lilac, mocha, powder blue and aquamarine. However, you don’t need to empty out your entire closet and replace everything that you have just because its summer; a nicely-colored dress, jumpsuit or handbag can perform miracles on a bright summer’s night.
27 What’s happening
Gelato
Gelato is the italian word for icecream. Perlan makes it’s own italian gelato for you to enjoy with the spectacular view overseeing the city in any direction.
C
A
F
É
28
What’s happening
Saga Festival www.sagafest.is
29 What’s happening
Cinema
30
What’s happening
MAD MAX: FURY ROAD
FÚSI
HOT PURSUIT
CHILD 44
FAST & FURIOUS 7
LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | ÁLFABAKKI KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | BÍÓ PARADÍS BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
ÁLFABAKKI | KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
ÁLFABAKKI
SMÁRABÍÓ
8,8
7,7 4,7
98%
THE WATER DIVINER PITCH PERFECT 2 SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
7,3
ÁLFABAKKI | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL
7,3
61%
68%
6,4
23%
82%
6%
GOOD KILL AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON ÁLFABAKKI | KRINGLUBÍÓ | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
8,0
7,7
ÁLFABAKKI | SAMBÍÓIN EGILSHÖLL SAMBÍÓIN AKUREYRI | SAMBÍÓIN KEFLAVÍK
6,3
74%
PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 SMÁRABÍÓ
6,4
23%
74%
A SECOND CHANCE HÁSKÓLABÍÓ
BAKK SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | LAUGARÁSBÍÓ | BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
7,1
45%
THE AGE OF ADALINE HÁSKÓLABÍÓ | BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
8,0
74%
SPOOKS: THE GREATER GOOD SMÁRABÍÓ | HÁSKÓLABÍÓ BORGARBÍÓ AKUREYRI
6,8
59%
CITIZENFOUR BÍÓ PARADÍS
8,2
98%
31 What’s happening
Svarfadur Valley is Iceland’s most beautiful place, according to its people, the Svarfdaelings. A few years ago, all sheep in the valley were quarantined and destroyed because of scrapie, a fatal and infectious disease. That’s when they founded the Herding Society, a venerable club of shepherds, car mechanics, carpenters, schoolteachers and plumbers. They are also poets and singers and festive men. And they continue to herd every year, despite the fact that there is not a single sheep left in the valley. The Svarfadur Valley Herding Society: Skál fyrir þér! Léttöl
32
What’s happening
EXPERIENCE The Golden Circle Treat yourself to Iceland’s most popular pizza. Call us at 58 12345, we deliver right to your room!
TEL. 58 12345