"Arctic Creatures" is a collective of three childhood friends; visual artist Hrafnkell Sigurdsson, filmmaker / director Óskar Jónasson, and actor / theatre director Stefán Jónsson. Since 2012, they have collaborated on a unique project that merges their creative talents.
Over more than a decade, they have crafted a compelling series of photographic works set against the rugged backdrop of the Icelandic wilderness. In these images, the artists themselves assume the roles of the main characters, embodying mythological beings or enacting scenes reminiscent of historical artworks. Their attire is simple, often just the bare essentials, which adds a raw, vulnerable quality to their performances. The scenes are both choreographed and improvised, utilising found objects from the environment, ranging from litter to seaweed, as both props and set pieces.
The resulting photographs are a mix of comedy and tragedy, with elements that are simultaneously spontaneous and meticulously planned, appearing artless yet profoundly meaningful. These works provoke thought about the interplay between art and environment, mythology, and reality, evoking a range of emotions and thoughts.
The exhibition, featuring 24 photographs from their ventures, offers viewers more than just visual art; it provides a narrative that bridges the gap between nature and culture, past and present. Through their imaginative staging, "Arctic Creatures" not only showcases their individual talents but also sparks a dialogue on how we perceive and impact our natural world.
The exhibition runs until September 31, 2024
