Reykjavik Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn - gray concrete building during daytime
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Reykjavik Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn

4.6
·307 reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Discover the unique world of Icelandic sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson in his former studio and inspiring sculpture garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy the sculptures in daylight

CrowdLow
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Reykjavik Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn - gray concrete building during daytime

Reykjavik Art Museum - Ásmundarsafn

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy the sculptures in daylight

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the unique world of Icelandic sculptor Ásmundur Sveinsson in his former studio and inspiring sculpture garden.

4.6
(307 reviews)

"Amazing museum with fantastic collection of sculptures and a beautiful garden."

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Garden First

Wander through the outdoor sculpture garden before or after your indoor visit for a complete experience.

✨ Look for Artist Demos

Keep an eye out for live demonstrations by visiting artists; it adds a special touch to the visit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ásmundur Sveinsson's Sculptures

Ásmundur Sveinsson's Sculptures

Marvel at the impressive collection of bold, imaginative sculptures by the renowned Icelandic artist.

Outdoor Sculpture Garden

Outdoor Sculpture Garden

Explore a charming garden filled with unique sculptures, offering a serene and artistic outdoor experience.

Unique Architectural Design

Unique Architectural Design

Experience the distinctive building, once the artist's studio, which is an artwork in itself.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sculpture Garden

Don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden, accessible even when the museum is closed. It's a delightful space to wander and admire Ásmundur Sveinsson's work year-round.

Check for Special Exhibitions

The museum often hosts visiting artists. Check their schedule for temporary exhibitions and live demonstrations, which can significantly enhance your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy the sculptures in daylight
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime the garden is open
Why
Sculptures are always accessible
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Reykjavik Recommendations

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Garden First

Wander through the outdoor sculpture garden before or after your indoor visit for a complete experience. Reddit

✨ Look for Artist Demos

Keep an eye out for live demonstrations by visiting artists; it adds a special touch to the visit. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Friendly staff can offer great insights into the art, enhancing your appreciation. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Garden First

Wander through the outdoor sculpture garden before or after your indoor visit for a complete experience. Reddit

✨ Look for Artist Demos

Keep an eye out for live demonstrations by visiting artists; it adds a special touch to the visit. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

Friendly staff can offer great insights into the art, enhancing your appreciation. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(307 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the magnitude and imagination of Ásmundur Sveinsson's sculptures, both within the museum and in the delightful outdoor garden. The unique architecture of the former artist's studio and the friendly, informative staff further enhance the experience, making it a highly recommended stop for art lovers.

"Waliking into the sculpture gallery you can’t help be awed by the magnitude of the beauty and the sheer volume of work being displayed in a smallish space. Ample space for the visiting contributing artists/artist in residence to showcase their work also. The outdoor sculpture garden is a delight and is always accessible."

Bruce Farmer

"We were lucky to see the current artist performing a workshop and doing a live demonstration. Beautiful architecture, artwork, and sculpture garden. Would recommend!"

Olivia Wright

"Beautiful gallery, very interesting building, and stunning artworks. Staff were so friendly and accomodating, gave me an introduction to the art and added significantly to the experience. Was overall lovely."

Gideon Explorer

What People Like

Impressive sculpture collection
Beautiful sculpture garden
Unique building architecture

What People Dislike

Can be a bit out of the way

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ásmundarsafn is located a bit outside the city center. You can take a local bus (e.g., routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 11, 14, 15) from downtown Reykjavik, which is a convenient and common way to travel. Alternatively, a taxi or a leisurely walk (about 30-40 minutes from Hallgrímskirkja) are options. Reddit

Yes, there is usually ample parking available at the museum, making it a convenient option if you're driving. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's always best to check the official Reykjavik Art Museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the outdoor sculpture garden is generally accessible year-round, even when the museum building itself is closed. This allows visitors to enjoy the art at their own pace. Reddit

Admission fees apply for the indoor exhibitions. Check the official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts or passes. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibitions or artworks. Reddit

The outdoor sculpture garden offers fantastic photo opportunities with the unique artworks set against the Icelandic landscape. The building's architecture itself is also very photogenic. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ásmundarsafn offers a unique outdoor experience that can be engaging for families. The sculpture garden provides space for children to explore and discover the large, intriguing artworks. While the indoor exhibits are focused on sculpture, the sheer scale and imaginative forms of Sveinsson's work can capture a child's attention. Consider making it a part of a larger outing, perhaps combining it with a walk or picnic in the surrounding park area. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those passionate about art and Icelandic cultural history, Ásmundarsafn is a must-visit. It offers a deep dive into the work of one of Iceland's most significant sculptors, housed in his former studio. The opportunity to see his personal workspace and understand his artistic process adds a layer of historical context. The rotating exhibitions of contemporary artists also provide a dynamic element for art lovers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Ásmundur Sveinsson

Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) was a pioneering Icelandic sculptor whose work is deeply intertwined with the nation's identity and landscape. His art is characterized by its bold, often monumental forms, and a profound connection to nature, mythology, and human experience. Sveinsson's studio, now the Ásmundarsafn museum, was designed by him and reflects his artistic vision, blending functional space with sculptural elements. The museum houses a significant collection of his works, showcasing his evolution as an artist from his early figurative pieces to his more abstract and symbolic creations. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the sheer volume and impact of his sculptures, both inside the museum and in the surrounding garden. The indoor space, though described as 'smallish' by some, is packed with powerful pieces that command attention. The upstairs room is noted for its interesting acoustics and natural imagery. Reddit The outdoor sculpture garden is a key feature, allowing visitors to experience Sveinsson's art in dialogue with the environment, a concept central to his artistic philosophy. Reddit

Experiencing the Architecture and Atmosphere

The building itself is a significant part of the Ásmundarsafn experience. Originally Ásmundur Sveinsson's studio and home, it was designed by the artist and completed in 1943. Its unique, almost organic architecture, with rounded forms and a distinctive dome, makes it a landmark in Reykjavik. The space is designed to complement his sculptures, creating an immersive environment for visitors. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the 'beautiful architecture' and the 'interesting building.' The atmosphere is often described as 'lovely' and 'serene,' especially when exploring the sculpture garden. The staff are frequently mentioned for their friendliness and willingness to share information, which significantly enhances the overall visitor experience and adds depth to the appreciation of the art and the space. Reddit

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