The Architecture of Guðjón Samúelsson – Parallels and Influences

Tuesday December 3rd at 8 p.m., Pétur H. Ármannsson, architect and curator, will give a lecture about Guðjón Samúelsson, entitled The Architecture of Guðjón Samúelsson Parallels and Influences, in connection with the current exhibition on the works of the late great architect at Hafnarborg.

Guðjón Samúelsson is undoubtedly best known for his attempts at establishing a uniquely Icelandic style of architecture. As an architect, he also paved the way for new international ideas in building and city planning. Pétur’s lecture will focus on architectural styles and movements in the early part of the 20th century, which influenced Guðjóns works, both directly and indirectly.

Guðjón was a pioneer in many fields and played an important role in modernising Icelandic society. His official position as State Architect of Iceland gave him a unique opportunity to influence the architecture and city planning of an entire country, something few architects have had the privilege of doing, anywhere in the world. For a nation without any Gothic churches or classical palaces, Guðjón’s works hold particular significance.

The curators of the exhibition are Ágústa Kristófersdóttir and Pétur H. Ármannsson. The exhibition is a collaboration with the National Museum of Iceland and the National Archives of Iceland, both of which were very generous in granting access to their collections. The exhibition is produced with the support of the Museum Fund of Iceland.

Free entry and everyone is welcome.