Petur Thomsen
Olga Bergmann
Kristjan Gudmundsson
Ragnar Kjartansson
Ruri'
Aesa Sigurjonsdottir
Halldor Bjorn Runolfsson
The program comprehends a group exhibition of contemporary art in "Dreams of the Sublime and Nowhere", curated by Aesa Sigurjonsdottir; a multimedia installation by Ruri' ("Water Vocal - Endangered II"); and a display of paintings in "Magicians of Nature", with Kjarval, Davidsson and Gudni, curated by Halldor Bjorn Runolfsson.
Iceland, whose people are descended from Vikings and Celts, has intrigued outsiders for centuries past. The volcanic island in the North Atlantic is famous for its geysers, glaciers, and stunning scenery. Despite having only 300.000 inhabitants, who occupy barely one fifth of its territory. The country has a strikingly vibrant cultural life, unequalled elsewhere. In its Iceland festival the Centre for Fine Arts opens up to the multi-faceted Icelandic arts scene, 4 enticing themes can act as your guideline when you make your choice among the 20 events. To pick and mix at will:
Pure Energy:
In the travel brochures the term “Pure Energy” is mainly associated with the lively capital city, Reykjavík, but during this festival it symbolises the dynamic relationship between culture and (unspoiled) nature. The impressive natural background in Iceland is not only a source of inspiration; it also forms part of the works of art...or is it the other way around ?
Independent People:
Iceland became independent in 1944 but Icelanders have always been self-willed. The last two generations, certainly, have determinedly sought out their own path.
Bad Taste:
Bad Taste (Smekkleysa) is the name of a prominent record lable famous in Iceland. During this Festival however, the name also stands for the dynamic Icelandic art-scene: innovative and experimental. Curious about the nightlife in Icelandic style? Come and enjoy a good piece of Bad Taste.
Sagas:
Iceland has a rich history which started with the Viking settlements in the 9th century. This history is partly described in the unique Icelandic Sagas, written in Icelandic from the 11th until the 13th century. This theme draws its name from it. SAGAS will show you a glimpse of a part of Iceland's traditional history!
Dreams of the Sublime and Nowhere In Icelandic Contemporary Art
Water Vocal – Endangered II by Rúrí
Magicians of Nature: Kjarval, Davidsson and Gudni: Three generations of Icelandic Painters
Image: Ragnar Kjartansson
Press preview: Tuesday 26th of February at 11am
Centre for Fine Arts
Rue Ravensteinstraat 23, 1000 Brussels
Hours: 10-18
Admission: euro 5 adults
euro 4,50: Delhaize / Knack Club / MYBOZAR
euro 4,00: over 60 / under 26 / groups
euro 3,75: FED+ / Davidsfonds
euro 2,50: jobseekers / under 18 / schools / teachers
euro 1,25: article 27
Free acces: ICOM