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About Icelandic Spirit:

Inspiration Through Nature’s Canvas

Our Retreats and Workshops at Kríunes Hotel (the city hotel by the lake) – https://kriunes.is

At Icelandic Spirit, we blend the mesmerizing natural beauty of Iceland with the enriching world of artistic expression. Founded by Iceland natives Sigrid, Björg, and Stefán, our company emerged from a deep appreciation for Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes. We specialize in organizing retreats and workshops that go beyond typical trips – they are transformative journeys. Our goal is to intimately connect participants with the raw, unspoiled beauty of Iceland, creating an ideal setting for artistic exploration and personal growth.

Our Mission

Our mission is to foster a space where creativity thrives amid the awe-inspiring scenery of Iceland. We view art not merely as a form of expression but as a powerful medium for connecting with nature, others, and oneself. Through our retreats, participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in their craft,
benefiting from the guidance of experienced instructors and the inspirational vistas of Iceland.

Our Veteran Art Instructors

Stefán Gudjohnsen

Artist and Entrepreneur
Stefán is a Washington D.C. based artist and entrepreneur born in Reykjavík, Iceland. His oil paintings are influenced by the old Norse style tradition and the captivating beauty of Icelandic landscapes. These elements became a recurring theme in his paintings, imbued with a sense of ancient folklore and mythology.
Stefán has exhibited his work extensively, gaining recognition for his ability to translate the essence of Norse heritage and Icelandic nature onto canvas. His paintings evoke a sense of timeless wonder, appealing to those who are captivated by both history and the natural world.

List of exhibitions

  • 2019 Kossuth House Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington DC.

  • 2017 Embassy of Iceland, Washington DC USA.
    “Icelandic art 4 generations”.
  • 2016 Inter-American Development Bank, Washington DC USA.
More about Stefán’s art here :

https://www.stefangudjohnsenart.com/

Sigridur Johannesdottir

Professor and Cultural Bridge
Born and raised in Iceland, Sigridur Johannesdottir, fondly known as Sigrid, has carved a niche for herself in the world of art and academia. In 1988, Sigrid made a pivotal move to the United States to pursue her Master of Fine Arts in Costume Design, a journey that not only honed her artistic skills but also opened new horizons in her career.
Today, Sigrid stands as a revered professor of Costume Design and Technology at George Washington University. Her role goes beyond teaching; it involves inspiring the next generation of artists, guiding them through the intricate world of design and creativity. But what truly sets Sigrid apart is her enduring connection to her Icelandic roots.
Sigrid has been instrumental in fostering cultural exchanges, introducing American artists and painters to the rich tapestry of Icelandic nature and culture. This initiative, which she has passionately led for the third time, reflects her deep love for her homeland and her commitment to cultural appreciation and artistic collaboration.
A painter herself, Sigrid’s journey in the arts has been long and enriching. She has been painting for most of her life, finding solace and expression in the strokes of her brush. Her artistic pursuit took her to painting workshops in Italy and the USA, experiences that were pivotal in her development as a painter. These workshops were not just about mastering the art; they were gateways to understanding and appreciating different cultures – a testament to her belief in the power of art to unite and educate
In every role she takes, whether as a professor, mentor, artist, or cultural ambassador, Sigridur Johannesdottir embodies a spirit of learning, sharing, and connecting worlds through the universal language of art

Arts by Stefán Gudjohnsen