The Einar Jónsson Museum and the National Gallery of Iceland to Merge at the Turn of the Year

“We have a strong commitment to bringing these two museums together. I am confident that both institutions will be strengthened and that visual art will gain a clearer and more powerful voice in Icelandic society,” says Ingibjörg Jóhannsdóttir, Director of the National Gallery of Iceland.

“With increased support, we will be able to extend the opening hours of the Einar Jónsson Museum and reach more visitors. Around two million tourists pass through the square in front of Hallgrímskirkja every year, and the museum has great potential to engage them. At the same time, it is essential that we continue to reach the Icelandic public and students of all ages. Einar’s works are compelling, and the museum itself is a fascinating place that offers insight into a unique and imaginative world.”

During the coming spring semester, the children’s club Krummi will also begin activities at the Einar Jónsson Museum, as it already does at Fríkirkjuvegur and the Safnahúsið. There, children accompanied by adults will be introduced to the artist’s work through creative, hands-on activities.

In addition, short courses for adults will be offered. Sigurður Trausti Traustason, curator and specialist in Einar Jónsson’s work, will explore the artist’s visual language and symbolism, while visual artist Margrét H. Blöndal will lead guided viewings through drawing, engaging participants with both the artworks and the museum’s distinctive, almost fairy-tale-like building.

Work on the merger has been ongoing over the past year, in line with government policy to consolidate institutions, strengthen their operations, improve public services, and achieve greater efficiency. The Ministry of Culture has led the process, which has progressed smoothly and generated many exciting ideas.

Many staff members of the Einar Jónsson Museum will continue in their roles, and the museum’s former board will take on a new responsibility: overseeing the Einar Jónsson Museum Cast Collection and serving in an advisory capacity to the National Gallery of Iceland.