The Way: A performative pilgrimage through Vatnsmýrin, Reykjavík

The Way
A performative pilgrimage through Vatnsmýrin, Reykjavík

On June 12 and 14, performance artists Steinunn Knúts Önnudóttir and Kolbrún Dögg Kristjánsdóttir invite guests to take part in The Way – a performative pilgrimage through Vatnsmýrin wetland in Reykjavík. In the spirit of pilgrimage, participants travel not only through a place but also toward themselves. Through guided reflections, sensory observations, and  easy tasks, the way invites awareness of our connection to the surrounding environment. The journey begins and ends at the Nordic House and is open to people of all ages and varying abilities.

This work is part of a series of performative pilgrimages that Steinunn is developing around the country and through inner landscapes. Each journey is created in collaboration with people who are connected to the place or theme at hand. The Way explores the relationship between humans and their environment, rooted in ideas of existential sustainability and belonging. Each iteration is shaped by the terrain it travels through and takes the form of guided group walks and self-led journeys, following downloadable itinary and map available on the project website. 

The Way  is part of a larger project led by Steinunn with the newly founded Fagurferðir, a spiritual travel agency that offers performative experiences combining aesthetics, reflection, and transformative experiences, grounded in art, nature, and philosophy. Other walks in the series will take place in Kjós, Ásbyrgi, and Hallormsstaður. The final pilgrimage will be an audio piece designed for those unable to travel, offering a journey through the inner realm.

The Reykjavík edition is specifically designed with accessibility in mind. Kolbrún Dögg, who co-creates the work, uses a wheelchair and brings lived experience and perspective to the piece.

Walk dates and times:
Steinunn and Kolbrún will lead a group journey starting from The Nordic House.

• Thursday, June 12, 14:00–16:00
• Saturday, June 14, 14:00–16:00

The journey is approximately 2.5 kilometers and takes 90–120 minutes. Light refreshments will be offered along the way. The route follows paved walkways and sidewalks, with about 10% on fine gravel paths. The guided walk will be in icelandic but an english and danish version of the work can be accessed through the projects website https://en.fallegt.com/the-way/.

To register, send an email to fallegt@fallegt.com, indicating your preferred date and number of participants. Group bookings for english or danish tours are available by arrangement.

More information about Fagurferðir and the project can be found at https://fallegt.com.