As we tap away at our keyboards, the first issue of 2026 is being distributed across the nation! Exciting, isn’t it? Peering out of our office window, we’re blessed with a glimpse of sunshine — a double dose of joy!
This weekend, a slew of captivating events and openings beckon. Can we add a triple cheer?
This afternoon at 16:00, the amateur photography collective FÓKUS kicks off a series of exhibitions at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography with Movement. Six talented photographers will showcase works that delve into the various meanings behind this evocative concept.
Tomorrow at 14:00, the Listasalur Mosfellsbæjar will unveil the exhibition Mercury Maze. This sonic and visual installation comes courtesy of the imaginative minds at Mercury Maze Studio, including artists Owen Hindley, Katerina Blahutova, and Þorsteinn Eyfjörð. Later in the evening, at 21:00, don’t miss the duo Marsibil (Una Schram & Kári the Attempt) as they take the stage for this week’s Straumur performance.
And for our Sunday fix, the weekly jazz session at Iðnó will feature the experimental trio Whale Bird, who promises an engaging live experience at the usual time of 20:00.
For even more happenings, just scroll down, or if you have an event to share, add it to the calendar at events.grapevine.is or explore what’s already on the agenda.
Emma
January 9 — 20:00 — Mengi — 2,500 ISK/2,000 ISK for students
In our ninth issue of 2025, we had the pleasure of interviewing the atmospheric folk band Emma, delving into the inspirations behind their debut album, Halidome. If their performance during Iceland Airwaves eluded you, tonight offers a perfect opportunity to catch them live. The quartet will present “stripped back versions” of their album alongside some unreleased material, inviting the Mengi audience into the enchanting world woven through their delicate melodies. ISH
Sæmundur Þór Helgason — DRIP
Opens January 10 — 15:00 — Y Gallery
Sæmundur Þór Helgason is renowned for his imaginative and politically charged art. His previous work, 2024’s Why is Iceland so Poor?, attracted attention with its provocative presentation at The New Art Museum, showcasing video interviews of shoppers discussing poverty in Iceland. Now, DRIP features his enlarged replicas of Playmobil toys that reveal the marks of mass production. This series particularly highlights police-related accessories like handcuffs, a helmet, and a vest. ISH
The New Art Museum B-Day & New Year’s Party!
January 10 — 20:00 — The Museum of Contemporary Art — 1,500 ISK
Each year, Nyló’s birthday bash stands out, and this year’s celebration promises to be just as exhilarating. Expect an impressive lineup featuring artists, musicians, dancers, and DJs, including DJ Kling & Bang, DJ Open, MC Myasnoi, Countess Malaise, Butter, CYBER, Benni There, Páll Óskar, Power Failure, Apex Anima, and FRZNTE. Adding to the festivities are circus performers from Round Game, a chance to spin a “lucky wheel,” and even temporary tattoos from Jasa Baka. Plus, there will be a glitter booth! This is one bash you won’t want to miss. ISH
Photo by Art Bicnick
Steina: Playback Final Weekend
Closes on January 11 — National Gallery of Iceland & Reykjavík Art Museum — 2,500 ISK each
Don’t miss your last chance this weekend to experience the large-scale retrospective of the esteemed video artist and digital media pioneer, Steina Vasulka. Her exhibition, running simultaneously at the National Gallery of Iceland and the Reykjavík Art Museum, is a testament to her groundbreaking contributions to the field. A trained classical musician, Steina’s work merges music and video art, offering immersive installations that reflect her artistic journey over the decades. If you haven’t yet explored these exhibitions, the Grapevine wholeheartedly recommends seizing the opportunity now. FROM
