Art Installations

Overview

The Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik, Iceland, is not merely a venue for music and conferences; it is a monumental work of art in itself, particularly renowned for its breathtaking glass facade. This iconic architectural feature, designed by Danish-Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson in collaboration with Henning Larsen Architects, serves as a dynamic art installation that constantly interacts with its surrounding environment. Inspired by Iceland's dramatic landscapes, especially its crystalline basalt columns, the facade transforms with the changing light, weather, and seasons, creating a mesmerizing play of colors and reflections. It has become a prominent symbol of Reykjavik, embodying the country's blend of natural beauty and innovative design.

History & Cultural Background

The design of Harpa's facade is rooted in a fascinating collaboration that sought to integrate art and architecture deeply. Ólafur Elíasson's artistic vision, combined with the architectural expertise of Henning Larsen Architects, brought to life a structure that pays homage to Iceland's geological heritage. The core concept for the facade stems from a modular, space-filling structure known as the 'quasi brick,' originally developed by geometer and mathematician Einar Thorsteinn in the 1980s. Elíasson and Thorsteinn began exploring the architectural potential of these twelve-sided polyhedrons in 2002, ultimately applying this innovative geometry to Harpa's exterior.

Harpa's construction, which began in 2007 and was completed in 2011, also carries significant cultural weight as a symbol of Icelandic resilience. Initiated just before the 2008 financial crisis, the project faced considerable challenges but was ultimately completed with government intervention, becoming a beacon of hope and national renewal during a difficult period. The building's design not only reflects Iceland's natural identity but also its commitment to the arts and culture, solidifying its role as a vital cultural hub in the heart of Reykjavik.

What Makes It Special

What makes Harpa's art installations truly special is their extraordinary ability to engage with light and the environment. The main south facade, in particular, features hundreds of these three-dimensional 'quasi bricks,' which are modular units made of steel and panes of color-effect filter glass. Each of the 714 glass panels is uniquely shaped, allowing the building to shimmer and change appearance depending on how light hits it. During the day, the geometric figures capture and reflect sunlight, the midnight sun, or even the northern lights, creating a dynamic dialogue between the building, the city, and the natural scenery.

At night, the facade is transformed by an intricate LED lighting system, designed by Elíasson, which illuminates the structure with a full spectrum of colors. This allows for a variety of patterns, letters, or symbols to be displayed, turning the entire building into a radiant light sculpture. The constant interplay of transparency and reflection blurs the boundaries between the exterior and interior, drawing visitors into a mesmerizing visual experience. This architectural and artistic marvel earned Harpa the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award in 2013, recognizing its exceptional contemporary architecture.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Beyond its dazzling facade, Harpa hosts other artistic elements that enrich the visitor experience. Outside the concert hall, facing the sea, stands 'The Musician,' a sculpture from 1970 by Icelandic artist Ólöf Pálsdóttir. This artwork depicts a cellist playing, modeled after the Danish cellist Erling Blöndal Bengtsson, who reportedly played continuously for Ólöf as she worked. More recently, the wind-activated artwork 'Himinglæva' by Elín Hansdóttir was inaugurated in Harpa's square in 2022. This piece produces varying tones depending on the wind's strength, effectively turning the artwork into a musical instrument itself, perfectly fitting for a concert hall.

A fun fact about Harpa is how its design explicitly draws from the hexagonal basalt columns found abundantly in Iceland's volcanic landscapes, such as those at Reynisfjara beach or Svartifoss waterfall. This direct inspiration means the building itself is a large-scale artistic interpretation of Iceland's geological wonders, connecting man-made beauty with the raw power of nature. The largest auditorium within Harpa, Eldborg, is even named after a famous volcanic crater, meaning 'Fire Mountain'.

Visitor Perspective

For visitors, experiencing the art installations at Harpa is an immersive journey of light, form, and cultural immersion. The building's public spaces are free to enter, allowing anyone to wander through its geometric interiors and marvel at how the natural light filters through the multi-faceted glass panels. From inside, the 'quasi bricks' offer unique perspectives of the harbor, the city, and the surrounding mountains, framed by the crystalline structure. The ever-changing reflections make every visit a unique visual event.

Photography enthusiasts will find Harpa an absolute gem, with countless opportunities to capture the interplay of light and geometry, both day and night. Guided tours are also available for those who wish to delve deeper into the building's design, acoustics, and the stories behind its stunning glass walls. Whether you're attending a concert, enjoying a meal, or simply exploring, the art installations at Harpa offer a profound connection to Iceland's artistic spirit and natural grandeur.