i8 gallery has been at the forefront of representing eclectic contemporary art ever since its opening over two decades ago. Having made an exceptional reputation outside Iceland as an ambitious forum for established as well as up-and-coming artists, i8 represents artists from all over the world, from the work of renowned artists such as Alicja Kwande, Ernesto Neto and Ragnar Kjartansson to influential ones, such as Lawrence Weiner and Ólafur Elíasson.
The origin of i8 goes back to the year 1995. The title is a reference to it’s first locale at Ingolfsstraeti 8 in Reykjavík. Edda Jónsdóttir, an active visual artist, founded the gallery to add a much needed variety and vitality to the local art scene and by creating a gallery with contacts and co-operation on an international level. The debut exhibition featured the work of Hreinn Fridfinnsson and set the tone for the i8’s policy of highlighting contemporary art and offering people the opportunity to encounter artists from the Icelandic as well as the international scene.
Inspiring artwork
A visit from a member of the i8 team is usually the first step in finding out which artwork would best suit each apartment and its owner. The final outcome is the result of different ideas and fittings at the apartment. The process leading up to that consists of going through a wide range of different artwork; paintings, sculptures and everything in between, from the many artists i8 collaborates with. The goal is to always find a piece that inspires the owner and suits the home. i8 provides consultancy and service to achieve that final outcome.
