The Dublin Arts Council is about to transport visitors on a journey through Iceland, with a new immersive art exhibition opening on Saturday, March 8.
Titled A Journey of Iceland: From Darkness to Light, the exhibition is a collaboration between Ohio-based writer and poet Erin Boggs, Icelandic artist Einar Örn Benediktsson, and musician Kaktus Einarsson. Through a fusion of visual art, poetry, and music, the exhibit explores Iceland’s striking landscapes, unpredictable weather, and vibrant culture.
Boggs, who has long been inspired by travel, music, and art, first visited Iceland in 2022 to see Damon Albarn perform. That trip led her to connect with Einar Örn, a former member of the legendary Icelandic band The Sugarcubes, who was exhibiting his own artwork at the time.
The two began collaborating on this project, which has since grown into a multi-sensory experience designed to transport visitors to the rugged beauty of Iceland. The exhibition first debuted in Reykjavík before making its way here to Dublin.
I had the privilege of meeting up with Erin and Einar while they were beginning the installation process earlier this week.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the installation process was witnessing Einar’s spontaneous approach to the space. While setting up the exhibit, he created additional artwork on the spot to enhance the immersive feel of the exhibition.
A fireplace became a display for a newly crumpled drawing, and a sink in one of the rooms was similarly transformed into an artistic focal point. His dedication to making the exhibit feel organic and alive—blending his work seamlessly into the space—demonstrated a deep commitment to storytelling through art. It felt almost compulsive, as if creating was something he simply had to do.
The show will host an opening reception on Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., where visitors can meet Erin Boggs, Einar Örn, and Kaktus Einarsson in person. This is a rare opportunity to experience a truly immersive blend of art, literature, and music while engaging with the creators themselves.
For anyone who has ever dreamed of experiencing the awe-inspiring landscapes and culture of Iceland, A Journey of Iceland: From Darkness to Light offers a unique opportunity to do just that—without ever leaving Ohio.
For more info, head over to dublinarts.org/journeyoficeland.
