This year will mark the Festival's second focus on contemporary visual art, following the critically acclaimed program presented in 2005 and curated by Jessica Morgan of Tate Modern and Björn Roth, son of artist Dieter Roth. It will feature more than 30 exhibitions of over 100 Icelandic and international artists, with most exhibitions on view trough July or August 2008. The Festival will also present a full performing arts program.
Rooted in Iceland's famous tradition of hospitality, a special opening weekend will celebrate the launch of the Festival, with receptions held at most venues, and featuring a one-day flight around the country to visit the exhibitions presented in the North and East. The program will end with an art project and reception at the Blue Lagoon geothermal pool.
Most exhibitions will be on view through July and August. A complete Festival program including concerts, theater, dance, and opera performances is available on the festival's website.