Listasýning

Listasýning is the Icelandic term for an art exhibition, defined as a public display of visual artworks. In Iceland, listasýningar take place in galleries, museums, and other cultural venues, and can be solo shows by a single artist or group exhibitions featuring several artists. They may be curated or juried, and often serve as a platform for presenting new work and gaining professional recognition.

Media represented in listasýningar includes paintings, sculpture, photography, printmaking, video, installation, and other contemporary visual media. The exhibitions may showcase a specific theme or focus on a particular artist, school, or period, and can vary in scale from intimate spaces to large public venues.

Organization and programs: Exhibitions are usually organized by art institutions such as national or municipal galleries, private galleries, artist associations, or cultural centers; openings and related events are common components of the program.

Process: Artists may be invited to participate or may submit works to a juried call. A curator or jury reviews submissions based on criteria such as concept, technique, and relevance, after which selected works are installed for a defined run.

Support and impact: Listasýningar help sustain Iceland’s contemporary art scene by increasing visibility for artists, enabling sales and commissions, and fostering public engagement with contemporary visual culture.

Etymology: The term combines listas (art) and sýning (exhibition) in Icelandic.