This Week in the Art World — 13–19 July 2026 | Föndurlist.is

Introduction

The week of 13–19 July is an exceptionally rewarding one for art lovers, with exhibitions spanning both historical context and fresh contemporary approaches. In Reykjavík and Hafnarfjörður, visitors have the chance to explore everything from cityscapes and Icelandic modern art to participatory projects and workshops where creativity takes centre stage.

Below, we run through a selection of this week's highlights, organised by type, drawing out what's particularly interesting for those who want to make the most of the summer days with a full cultural programme — whether that means visiting an exhibition or settling in for a moment of inspiration over at fondurlist.is.

Exhibitions

May Show Signs of Minor Defects at Hafnarborg in Hafnarfjörður continues this week and is one of the most intriguing exhibitions on offer. Sveinn Fannar Jóhannsson works with found photographs and materials taken out of their original context, raising questions about memory, meaning, and what is lost when images are repurposed.
Kjarval and the 20th Century: When Modernity Anchored at Kjarvalsstaðir offers a compelling overview of Icelandic visual art in the twentieth century, exploring how new ideas about modernity, form, and society shaped art in the decades following the turn of the 1900s.
Karin Sander: 1957-2057 at Hafnarhús is a pleasantly unexpected exhibition that brings a fresh perspective to the everyday. The works invite playful engagement with identity, space, and objecthood — a great fit for anyone interested in conceptually driven contemporary art.
Erró: Remix - including a selection of Scapes at Hafnarhús is a powerful survey show dedicated to one of Iceland's most celebrated contemporary artists. Bold colour, layered imagery, and rich cultural references come together in an exhibition that is as visually exciting as it is thought-provoking.
Big Little City – Reykjavík in View at Kjarvalsstaðir is ideal for anyone interested in the history and visual memory of the city. Marking the 240th anniversary of Reykjavík, the exhibition explores how the city has appeared through artists' eyes and how its image has shifted over time.

Events and Guided Tours

Mini Tour on Exhibitions | Kjarvalsstaðir is a great way to get acquainted with the exhibitions in a short time, with context provided by knowledgeable guides. This is especially handy for those who want to take in both Big Little City and Kjarval and the 20th Century in a single visit.
Mini Tour on Exhibitions | Hafnarhús gives visitors insight into both Karin Sander: 1957-2057 and Erró: Remix - including a selection of Scapes. Guided tours like these often unlock new layers in the work and are a wonderful way to deepen your experience.
Wonderland: Open Workshop at Ásmundarsafn puts community and live creativity front and centre. Visitors are invited to take part in creative activities rooted in the methods and spirit of the Wonderland project.
Akademía Skynjunarinnar - Þátttökugjörningur at SÍM is an event for those who want to experience art as interaction rather than observation. Participatory works like this are often among the most memorable moments in any art programme, as the audience becomes part of the piece itself.

Closing Thoughts

There's a lot happening in the art world this week, and it's a wonderful opportunity to visit museums, get involved, and let new perspectives leave their mark. Whether you choose a single exhibition or set out on a full art trail across the city, it matters to show up, engage, and support Icelandic artistic life — through a visit, by picking up art supplies, or simply by sharing your experience with others.