Iceland is a small island between Greenland and Great Britain, with a small population but abundant resources. Few people know Iceland’s exact position on the globe however, it is well known for its unpronounceable volcano names, that with their white puffs, can freeze the air traffic of an entire hemisphere.Also, the country is quickly growing and is “exporting” its creativity and talents. Have you ever wondered where Bjork, Of Monsters and Man, and Sigur Ros come from? Iceland.
After the financial crisis, which started in 2008 and ended in 2011, three major banks failed one after the other, causing 85 USD billion of debts. As a result, the government decided to cut off funds for arts and culture. Since then, some art projects have been funded on local level. For example, Unglist, a project based on diversity and understanding, is funded by the city of Reykjavík. It is an art festival with the aim of promoting young artists and their culture by offering the artists tools to create their art and perform it. Even though the government is spending little money in arts, the young are motivated to follow their dreams and the Icelandic natural culture supports it.
During my stay in Denmark, at the Nordic Culture Camp, organised by the cultural festival Kulturmodet, I met two young Icelandic performers, who caught my attention from the moment I saw them. I had many questions on my mind and as I got to know them better, I obtained a better understanding for the arts and culture of Iceland. I learned, that the arts are strongly integrated in the educational system, as the youth’s creativity will shape the future of the country. The economy in Iceland is prosperous and parents invest money into a“creative education for their kids. Theatre clubs, music, and dance are a popular part of the curriculum.
Soley and Birjtir continued to tell me more about themselves and what the current situation in Iceland is like for them: Soley, 20 and Birjtir, 19, both both live in the capital city, Reykjavík. They share the same dream of becoming an actress/actor one day. They are young and genuinely believe their future is full of chances and possibilities.
Soley told me that attaining a job as an aspiring actress in Iceland is very difficult. Moving to another country might be a solution due to a major demand and more opportunities. Abroad, however, she might be confronted with a new language, which makes it just as challenging to find jobs.
“Iceland is a small country, and it is easy to be known but the arts are not supported and financed enough.”
Birjtir cannot compare the situation in Iceland with other countries since he is not familiar with the conditions. Nevertheless, as an aspiring actor, also for him there might be more opportunities outside of the country, as there is only one drama school on the whole island, and hence the requirements and application procedures are extremely challenging. It must be discouraging when educational offers are so limited in number. Soley’s sister for example, a circus artist, had to leave Iceland for her professional development as there is no school directly related to the circus business.
Even though only little public money is being spent on art, still the young Icelanders are using the few resources they have to keep the arts alive. The uncontaminated nature and landscapes help them explore their inner nature and work in this peaceful environment to get inspired.
Once Bjork said: "In Iceland we don’t go to church or psychotherapist, we go for a walk to feel better." Then to everyone I say: “Visit Iceland, and discover yourself. Create and get inspired by the beautiful landscapes and people of this land.”
For any artist who is interested in moving to Iceland or to gain experiences there, the Reykjavík Youth Center, Hitt Húsið in the capital city, offers lots of opportunities for artists and the applications are always open. Many young Icelanders are moving their residence to Reykjavík, a city that offers creative summer groups and street theatre where you can even get paid.