Rán Brings Hafnarfjörður’s Elf World to Life at The Shed

See the World Through the Eyes of Elves!

How do the elves of Hafnarfjörður perceive the world? Rán Sigurjónsdóttir gives us a chance to peek into that world, as she imagines it, in a new exhibition at The Shed. The Shed is a shop and community space run by Anthony Bacigalupo and Ýr Káradóttir, driven by their passion for arts and culture on Suðurgata. The exhibition opening is on September 4th, from 18:00–20:00.

Developed Through Creative Summer Work

Rán participated in Creative Summer Work this past summer. “It was an amazing experience, just like last year. Then I worked on the exhibition about the marine animal museum. This work is very rewarding and enjoyable.”

She created the works in The Shed at a studio in Germany in August, using the excellent facilities of her stepfather, beekeeper and handball legend Alfreð Gíslason. Rán, the daughter of Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir, found her artistic path there in August.

Found Her Way in Germany

“Yes, I went in a different direction after the summer work. I worked on oil paintings there but changed my style, now using dried Hafnarfjörður flowers and beeswax. This fun experiment worked out well. I find that the wax makes the works very juicy. It’s exciting to see the results and to work with natural materials,” she says.

“I feel like I’ve discovered something new. I’ve never seen anyone mix these materials together, and I can easily see myself using this method in the future.”

The exhibition description notes that the beeswax creates a cloudy surface—a kind of mysterious veil between worlds. With her works, Rán aims to open a window into another reality and invite viewers to glimpse a world hidden from most of us.

Inspired by Her Upbringing in Hellisgerði

“I grew up on the street above Hellisgerði. When I decided to apply for the Creative Summer Work program, I wanted to do something Hafnarfjörður-related, and the elves came to mind. I couldn’t imagine painting the elves themselves, so I decided to paint the landscape as I imagine the elves would see it.”

The exhibition runs until September 11 and is open weekdays from 16:00–18:00 and on the weekend of September 6–7 from 13:00–15:00.

“What’s next? I’m starting my third year at the Iceland University of the Arts,” says Rán, aiming to graduate with a BA in Graphic Design next spring.

Congratulations on the fantastic works!

• Admission is free, and everyone is warmly welcome.
• The Shed is located in a backyard, with parking available on Suðurgata.
• Feel free to come and step into an enchanting world.