Performance Residencies in Iceland

Fish Factory Creative Centre

Stöðvarfjörður, Iceland

The Fish Factory Creative Centre in Stöðvarfjörður, Iceland, is a beacon of creativity and sustainability nestled in a remote village within the East fjords. Established in 2011 through the transformation of an abandoned fish factory, this non-profit cooperative has become a hub for artists across various disciplines. The Centre emphasizes sustainable practices and community collaboration, aiming to rejuvenate the village by attracting creative individuals and fostering cultural and economic growth. It offers year-round art residencies, workshops, and cultural events, supporting both emerging and established artists. The renovation of the facility is an ongoing testament to the dedication of the core team and volunteers, reflecting the community's resilience and innovative spirit. The Centre's vision extends beyond artistic creation, aspiring to inspire similar initiatives that strengthen remote communities through creativity and cultural engagement.

Gullkistan

Laugarvatn, Iceland

Gullkistan, Center for Creativity, is an artist residency located in Laugarvatn, Iceland, offering a peaceful and inspiring environment surrounded by mountains, lakes, and Icelandic nature. It provides accommodation in two buildings with single and double rooms, as well as shared studio spaces equipped with tools, materials, and Wi-Fi. The residency is open year-round and welcomes artists, scholars, and international student groups seeking solitude and creative focus. Residents can engage in mutual activities, and family accommodations can sometimes be arranged. Gullkistan encourages independent work but also hosts workshops, seminars, and open studios. The residency is easily accessible, located 120 km from Keflavik International Airport, 70 km from Reykjavík, and 40 km from Selfoss. Fees vary depending on accommodation type, and while Gullkistan does not offer direct financial support, artists are encouraged to seek funding from their home countries. With its breathtaking natural surroundings and strong creative community, Gullkistan is an ideal space for deep artistic exploration.

Heima Art Residency

Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Heima Art Residency is an independent, non-profit, artist-run collective house founded in that offers 6-week residencies for LGBTQIA+ artists and activists from around the world. Located in Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland, the program provides a 350 square meter living and studio space where residents live, work, and collaborate together while engaging with the local community. The residency emphasizes cultural exchange, artistic skill-sharing, and creating a safe space for queer artists and activists.

Klaustrid AiR

Skriðuklaustur, Iceland

Klaustrið AiR is an artist residency program at Skriðuklaustur in East Iceland, managed by the Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute, offering 3-6 week stays for Icelandic and international artists, writers, scholars, composers, musicians, dancers, and other creatives in a quiet apartment within the historic Writer’s House. The program prioritizes projects related to Gunnar Gunnarsson’s life and works or East Icelandic studies, providing housing without rental fees (only a modest confirmation fee) but no stipend, in a peaceful rural setting ideal for focused creative or academic work.

LungA School

Seyðisfjörður, Iceland

LungA School is an artist-run residential art school in Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland offering 12-week immersive programs in Art and Land, where participants live together at the school and engage in experimental artistic and land-based practices. The school functions simultaneously as an educational institution and as an artwork itself, using the concept of schooling as its medium.

NES Artist Residency

Skagaströnd, Iceland

The NES Artist Residency in Skagaströnd, Iceland, offers a flexible and supportive environment for artists from around the world. The residency hosts 9-12 artists monthly, encouraging stays of two months or more for an immersive experience. NES provides individual workspaces in shared studios, with specific facilities for writers, dancers, performers, and musicians. The residency features two monthly events: free format artist presentations and public open studio events, with support for pop-up exhibitions. While the residency does not include structured programming, the NES team assists with logistical and artistic support as needed. The family-friendly residency offers various accommodation options, including single and double rooms, a private dance studio, and a three-bedroom apartment for families. NES operates year-round, welcoming artists of all disciplines to engage in a creative community surrounded by Iceland’s stunning natural landscape.

Old school art house – Hrísey

Gamli barnaskolinn – Skolagata/Midbraut, Iceland

Name of Residency: Old School art houseThe main objective of the residency is to provide an opportunity for international exchange, where professional artists in all media including writers and performing artists are given the opportunity to meet, exchange ideas and possibly cooperate. The peaceful island has a very prosperous atmosphere for artists. The residency is a non-profit organisation.Residency Programme since: 2010Description of Organisation: Hrisey, the island, is by the north coast of

SIM Residency (SÍM Residency)

Reykjavik, Iceland

The SÍM Residency, an initiative of SÍM - The Association of Icelandic Visual Artists, stands as a beacon of artistic growth and cultural immersion in Reykjavik, Iceland. Founded by SÍM, Iceland's largest organization for professional artists, the residency upholds the association’s commitment to enhancing artists' livelihoods and rights. Evolving from a modest apartment to a hub hosting international artists, it has become Reykjavik's most established and inspirational artist residency. With locations at Seljavegur in the bustling city center and Korpúlfsstaðir on the serene outskirts, the residency offers diverse environments for artistic work, housing around 70 studios including specialized facilities for Textiles, Ceramics, and Printmaking. This setup fosters a dynamic and collaborative community, enabling artists to engage deeply with their practice. SÍM Residency’s commitment to international exchange is evident in its numerous partnerships across Europe, promoting a global artistic dialogue and collaboration. Participating artists benefit from a range of programs, including public events and solo exhibitions, while also enjoying privileged access to Reykjavik’s prominent cultural institutions through the SÍM Guest Artist card.

Solvellir Arts Residency

Solvellir, Iceland

Name of Residency: Solvellir Arts ResidencyProgram Objectives:– Provide artists with a peaceful and supportive environment to focus on their creative projects : Solvellir Arts Residency offers artists the opportunity to escape the distractions of everyday life and immerse themselves in a tranquil environment conducive to creativity. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, artists can find solace in the serene landscapes and quiet surroundings of our residency. Whether working in their priva

The Old School - Hrisey

Hrísey, Iceland

The Old School - Hrísey is a sustainable, non-profit artist residency owned by the art group Nordanbal, located in an old schoolhouse on the peaceful island of Hrísey, Iceland. It provides opportunities for professional artists in all media, including writers and performing artists, to work, exchange ideas, collaborate, and enjoy the island's inspiring natural scenery. Facilities include four private bedrooms, shared working studios, kitchen, internet, and access to local amenities like a shop and swimming pool.