Welcome to the art exhibition The Factory: Sky Dancers, which runs throughout the summer from 24 May to 12 September 2025, in the old herring factory in Djúpavík. Dating back to 1917, Djúpavík is steeped in history, as it once thrived as a herring factory hub. Although the factory ceased operations in 1954, its legacy lives on through the largest concrete building in Iceland, now transformed into an exhibition space. Read on for more info about the exhibition and how to get there.
The Factory 2025: Sky Dancers explores the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis with artworks as ethereal and ephemeral as the northern lights themselves. Utilizing both science and myth, the 10 artists lead the way through the old herring factory in Djúpavík, awakening the phenomenon rarely visible to our eyes during summertime – gesturing to the untouchable, connecting Earth and Sky.
“Aurora” comes from the Roman goddess of dawn, and “boreas” is the Greek word for north wind. The heavenly colour storms have spellbound humans for countless years, drawing body, mind and soul into a haze of darkness and light — and invoking spirituality, healing, joy, chaos, and fear.
Opposites attract, and it is said that darkness renders the self open, reducing our sense of restricted self, offering an entrance into the ‘other’. This otherness may suggest why the northern lights so easily allow us to travel beyond scientific comprehension into fable.
Thus, you are invited to surrender. You may wander back to the time of theoretical ignorance, or dwell upon the scientific explanations of the universe. However, light and darkness are always at stake, carving their way through Sky Dancers, enacting a multitude of choreographies.
Opening hours
Opening event 24 May, 9 pm.
24 May - 12 September, open daily 10am - 6pm
Free admission
Artists
Anna Ólöf Jansdóttir (IS), Björt Sigfinnsdóttir (IS), Edda Karólína Ævarsdóttir (IS), Kathie Halfin (UKR/IL/US), Kathryn Cellerini, Moore (US), Lyse Fournier (FR), Signe Emdal and Kristian Emdal (DK), Sævar Helgi Bragason (IS), Tinna Ottessen (IS)
Curator
Emilie Dalum
How to get to Djúpavík
While public transport is scarce, adventurous travelers can access the region by car, savoring the freedom to explore at their own pace. After passing the town of Hólmavík take on an unforgettable journey along road #643 through the picturesque Árneshreppur municipality. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Iceland's stunning landscapes, dotted with charming settlements that welcome you with open arms. Among these treasures lies the historic village of Djúpavík, nestled along the shores of Reykjarfjörður.
We recommend to take your time and make stops along the way. For more information on interesting stops in the area, take a look at this blogpost we made about the region.
Please note, that when traveling in Iceland it is necessary to check the weather and road conditions before hitting the road. Visit https://safetravel.is/ or download their app for essential information on road conditions, driving tips, and other safety guidelines for navigating Iceland's roads.
