National Gallery of Iceland Wins Icelandic Museum Awards and Unveils New Programming in Reykjavík
The cultural landscape in Reykjavík is buzzing with exciting updates as the National Gallery of Iceland receives prestigious recognition, expands its permanent collection with generous international donations, and rolls out a dynamic schedule of seasonal exhibitions, educational clubs, and hands-on workshops.
Celebrating Excellence and Combating Art Forgery
The National Gallery of Iceland was recently honoured with the Icelandic Museum Awards 2026. This accolade recognizes the institution's compelling work on the exhibition The Mystery of the Lumpfish and Other Stories of Fakes and Forgeries, curated by Dagný Heiðdal and Ólafur Ingi Jónsson. Designed to inform the public about art forgery in Iceland, the exhibition provides a fascinating look into the investigative research methods deployed to determine the true authenticity and origins of disputed artworks. Visitors unable to view the physical displays can also explore a digital presentation via the Virtual Tour of the exhibition.
Expanding Collections and Engaging the Community
Beyond its award-winning exhibitions, the institution has welcomed significant new acquisitions. Late last year, two shipping containers arrived from Texas transporting part of the collective life's work of distinguished artists Kristín Halldórsdóttir and Jóhann Eyfells. Thanks to a collaborative effort involving the artists' family—led by Jóhann's son Ingólfur Eyfells—alongside Eimskip and the gallery, a generous donation of 25 works by Jóhann and additional pieces by Kristín has officially entered the national collection.
Meanwhile, community engagement remains a core pillar for the museum. The Teachers' Club recently hosted its vibrant spring celebration at the Einar Jónsson Art Museum, featuring specialized guided tours that highlight how educators increasingly incorporate local galleries into school curricula. Families and young visitors can also look forward to upcoming programming, such as the Krummi Kids’ Club Princess Workshop, which invites children to explore the sculpture garden's fairytale-inspired artwork.
Plan Your Visit to Reykjavík's Art Scene
For families and art enthusiasts planning a visit, a handful of spots remain for the gallery's popular summer art courses, tailored to foster creativity through hands-on studio work at the Fríkirkjuvegur building. Visitors can also explore exclusive items at the museum shop, including a commemorative embroidery kit based on Guðmundur Þorsteinsson's (Mugg) 1923 artwork Adam and Eve in Paradise.
To discover more cultural highlights and upcoming exhibitions across the city, you can browse through the museums list or check out the what's on exhibitions guide on Musemap (musemap.art).
