References
Europe:Iceland (2011). Retrieved from The World Factbook:
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ic.html.
Iceland in figures 2011 (2011). Retrieved from Statistics Iceland:
http://www.statice.is/?pageid=452&itemid=bfd2aafb-84f5-4ec9-81e3-461a43276bca
About Iceland; Cuisines. Retrieved from Maps of World:
http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/iceland-economy-people-culture-and-flag.html
Visual Arts. Retrieved from iceland.is:
http://www.iceland.is/arts-culture/visual-arts/
Hulda G. (2006). The Icelandic Horse. Retrieved from (Félag hrossabænda (The Horse Breeders Association of Iceland):
http://www.fhb.is/Files/hestarensk72.pdf
Arctic Indigenous Peoples. Retrieved from Arctic Centres:
http://www.arcticcentre.org/?DeptID=7768
Polar Law Program Opens in Iceland (2008). Retrieved from National Public Radio:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18690185
Which Islands Lack an Indigenous Population? Retrieved from wiseGEEK:
http://www.wisegeek.com/which-islands-lack-an-indigenous-population.htm
Roundtable Discussion: Culture and Long-Term Community Viability (2003) Retrieved from Stofnun Vilhjálms Stefánssonar (Stefansson Arctic Institute):
http://www.svs.is/JHI_PresentationCanadianGGroundtable.pdf
Arts & Culture in Scandinavia. Retrieved from Scandinavia Tourist Board:
http://visitscandinavia.com.au/DestinationsAndAttractions/Scandinavia.1/ArtsCulture.5.aspx
The biggest shopping centre in Iceland. Retrieved from Smáralind:
http://www.smaralind.is/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=16&Itemid=35
See & Do; Shopping. Retrieved from Visit Iceland:
http://www.visiticeland.com/Seedo/Shopping/
Marvin L.(2007). How Not to be Icelandic. Retrieved from The Reykjavik Grapevine:
http://grapevine.is/Home/ReadArticle/How-Not-to-be-Icelandic
Reykjavik Events and Festivals. Retrieved from World Guides:
http://www.reykjavik.world-guides.com/reykjavik_events.html
Monday, December 12, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
My Reflection
My personal reflection of Iceland will be that there should be a balance amidst tourism developments between the culture and its people. I assume that after the initiative by the government to attract more visitors to the country, there will be more visitors, therefore resulting in an even quicker tourism developments in Iceland to cater to the demand.
I feel that tourism should work both ways. Tourism can encourage the locals to showcase their culture to the visitors, at the same time the locals should also emphasise on preserving their own unique culture and not be eroded or influenced by other people. As seen in Iceland, Reykjavik has been turning into a tourism hotspot. I feel that more efforts should be imposed to preserve the culture and image of the country such as promoting other parts of the country to strike a balance. Visitors will bring in tourism dollars for the country because of their authentic culture.
Having Americanised malls in Reykjavik is one thing, however the interests of the locals and the location should be taken care of as well. If Reykjavik is supposed to preserve the heritage of the whole country, I feel that it will not be that appropriate to build malls just to meet consumer(visitor) demands.
In the long run, as more tourists arrive and if there are still inadequate efforts imposed to preserve the culture, Icelandic culture will be lost forever.
I feel that tourism should work both ways. Tourism can encourage the locals to showcase their culture to the visitors, at the same time the locals should also emphasise on preserving their own unique culture and not be eroded or influenced by other people. As seen in Iceland, Reykjavik has been turning into a tourism hotspot. I feel that more efforts should be imposed to preserve the culture and image of the country such as promoting other parts of the country to strike a balance. Visitors will bring in tourism dollars for the country because of their authentic culture.
Having Americanised malls in Reykjavik is one thing, however the interests of the locals and the location should be taken care of as well. If Reykjavik is supposed to preserve the heritage of the whole country, I feel that it will not be that appropriate to build malls just to meet consumer(visitor) demands.
In the long run, as more tourists arrive and if there are still inadequate efforts imposed to preserve the culture, Icelandic culture will be lost forever.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Disneyfied Characteristics
Yes, definitely in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, as it possess certain characteristics of being "disneyfied". I will be explaining through the 3 of the principles: theming, accommodation, merchandising. Performative labour is hard to determine and will not be used to explain the "Disneyfied" characteristics. It requires first hand experience to accurately assess service provided and service efficiency, for example.
There are two malls along the streets of Reykjavik, and they are themed malls designed especially to attract foreigners. In these malls, there are themed in such a way that it caters to the lifestyle of the people. Needs can be met and the shops include fast food chains, entertainment facilities and top brands for fashion. Along the streets, there are also flea markets to target a different group of people.
Theming is evident on the streets of Reykjavik. What I understand from theming is whereby Disney theme park is divided into 'lands' which are themed. Same goes for Reykjavik, the 'lands' include shopping malls, shops on the streets and flea markets in the region, giving visitors the convenience and a variety of shopping experiences.
Hybrid consumption is also apparent in Reykjavik. This street does not focus only on preserving its heritage, they want people and visitors to spend more time on the streets. There are accommodations at the heart of Reykjavik - Hotel Skjaldbreid. This hotel is located right on Laugavegur, Reykjavik‘s main shopping street. Besides the shopping malls, there are a whole variety of entertainment and shops lined up. Since there are more options, people tend to spend more time there, more time generally equates to more spending, thus they will be earning more revenue. Visitors can stay, eat, shop and experience the culture of Reykjavik all in one place, which makes it very convininent for the visitors.
Here is the link to illustrate the vast amount of shopping experiences - http://www.lonelyplanet.com/iceland/reykjavik/shopping
The next priciple is merchandising. In Reykjavik, there are also gift stores available for purchasing of souvenir. They offer a variety of items designed locally and sale of souvenirs with Iceland flag. Merchandising of local souvenirs will enable visitors to remember their experience in Iceland. Through merchandising, it is an alternative source of revenue for the country.
I believe that merchandising is more of being a good marketing technique to encourage repeated visits. Often, people can relate their experiences with the merchandise products. Here is a simple illustration: When one person is happy during their visit in the country, whenever they see the merchandise products they bought as souvenirs, it brings back happy memories.
Here is the website for some of the items that are on sale - http://www.icelandgiftstore.com/home/
There are two malls along the streets of Reykjavik, and they are themed malls designed especially to attract foreigners. In these malls, there are themed in such a way that it caters to the lifestyle of the people. Needs can be met and the shops include fast food chains, entertainment facilities and top brands for fashion. Along the streets, there are also flea markets to target a different group of people.
Theming is evident on the streets of Reykjavik. What I understand from theming is whereby Disney theme park is divided into 'lands' which are themed. Same goes for Reykjavik, the 'lands' include shopping malls, shops on the streets and flea markets in the region, giving visitors the convenience and a variety of shopping experiences.
Hybrid consumption is also apparent in Reykjavik. This street does not focus only on preserving its heritage, they want people and visitors to spend more time on the streets. There are accommodations at the heart of Reykjavik - Hotel Skjaldbreid. This hotel is located right on Laugavegur, Reykjavik‘s main shopping street. Besides the shopping malls, there are a whole variety of entertainment and shops lined up. Since there are more options, people tend to spend more time there, more time generally equates to more spending, thus they will be earning more revenue. Visitors can stay, eat, shop and experience the culture of Reykjavik all in one place, which makes it very convininent for the visitors.
Here is the link to illustrate the vast amount of shopping experiences - http://www.lonelyplanet.com/iceland/reykjavik/shopping
The next priciple is merchandising. In Reykjavik, there are also gift stores available for purchasing of souvenir. They offer a variety of items designed locally and sale of souvenirs with Iceland flag. Merchandising of local souvenirs will enable visitors to remember their experience in Iceland. Through merchandising, it is an alternative source of revenue for the country.
I believe that merchandising is more of being a good marketing technique to encourage repeated visits. Often, people can relate their experiences with the merchandise products. Here is a simple illustration: When one person is happy during their visit in the country, whenever they see the merchandise products they bought as souvenirs, it brings back happy memories.
Here is the website for some of the items that are on sale - http://www.icelandgiftstore.com/home/
Friday, December 2, 2011
Calendar of Events
Many of the events portray Icelandic culture, they are mostly related to arts and music. Since it is related to the cultures, the main focus for the events is to preserve and create opportunity for locals to appreciate the heritage, especially in Reykjavik. Of course, for every event, it gathers people from all over Iceland to celebrate, and thus each of these events will foster greater bonding among the local people.
Take for example Menningarnótt, it is estimated that this even attracts more than 100,000 people. This event is successful also largely due to the overwhelming response and participation of the local communities. The support of this event by the local people will therefore able to draw tourists to experience this particular event as well. This event is a complete package for the participants, starting off with a marathon, there are photography exhibits, film screenings, performances, food and nightlife, complete with a closing ceremony and fireworks. Through events like this, it can strengthen local communities through participation, a positive socio-cultural impact.
Of course, not all the events are restricted to culture. There are a variety of other events spanning across the entire year, Food and Fun Festival in Feburary, Beer Day and Iceland Air Horse Festival.
Icelanders celebrate "unique" events as well, one of which that I found was "First Day of Summer Festival". It is a historic Icelandic event heralding the arrival of warmer weather, with sports, live music, processions, dancing and markets. They celebrate the "longest day of the year" as well, known as the Summer Solstice, when many bars stay open all through the night, when the midnight sun shines. These show the community spirit of Icelanders who love to celebrate with each other for every single special ocassions available.
This website provides information for the readers on all the events available in Reykjavik all year round- http://www.reykjavik.world-guides.com/reykjavik_evens.html
Take for example Menningarnótt, it is estimated that this even attracts more than 100,000 people. This event is successful also largely due to the overwhelming response and participation of the local communities. The support of this event by the local people will therefore able to draw tourists to experience this particular event as well. This event is a complete package for the participants, starting off with a marathon, there are photography exhibits, film screenings, performances, food and nightlife, complete with a closing ceremony and fireworks. Through events like this, it can strengthen local communities through participation, a positive socio-cultural impact.
Of course, not all the events are restricted to culture. There are a variety of other events spanning across the entire year, Food and Fun Festival in Feburary, Beer Day and Iceland Air Horse Festival.
Icelanders celebrate "unique" events as well, one of which that I found was "First Day of Summer Festival". It is a historic Icelandic event heralding the arrival of warmer weather, with sports, live music, processions, dancing and markets. They celebrate the "longest day of the year" as well, known as the Summer Solstice, when many bars stay open all through the night, when the midnight sun shines. These show the community spirit of Icelanders who love to celebrate with each other for every single special ocassions available.
This website provides information for the readers on all the events available in Reykjavik all year round- http://www.reykjavik.world-guides.com/reykjavik_evens.html
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Tourism Impacts on Icelandic Culture
In my opinion, I believe that as long as there are foreign visitors in a destination, there are bound to have negative cultural impacts influenced by visitors. Similarly, there should also be both positive and negative impacts and not only one-sided outcome.
As for some of the positive impacts, the locals are more motivated to showcase their art exhibitions on the streets of Reykjavik. Visitors are able to buy the art pieces, small sculptures, postcards from the locals along the streets of Reykjavik. Through interactions with the locals, there will be an exchange of knowledge between the locals and visitors. Other positive impacts of the authentic culture in Iceland include the raised socio-cultural awareness. As more people visit Iceland, it means that more people are now aware of their culture in Iceland. In general, visitors help to enhance the overall cultural scene in Iceland.
The most common negative cultural impact will be the possible loss of identity and culture, known as the demonstration effect. In the heart of Reykjavik, there is a shopping mall named Smáralind, what matters more are the shops that can be found in the shopping mall. They include top brands such as Zara, Hugo Boss, Dorothy Perkins, Levi‘s, Topshop. Instead of preserving the street of Reykjavik, Americanised malls are built, therefore destroying Icelandic authentic culture.
They are built mainly due to consumer demands; visitors can claim 15% tourist rebate on purchases are over ISK 4,000 and the prices are cheaper as compared to their own countries. It benefits both Iceland's economy and its visitors, but at the same time this causes negative cultural impact.
Shopping with 15% rebate for tourists - http://www.visiticeland.com/Seedo/Shopping/
The media also played its part in eroding Iceland's culture, influencing the minds of the younger generation with American TV shows. As quoted from an article, "There is entire generation of Icelanders who know more about American Idol, Friends and American brand names than Icelandic poets."
As illustrated from the article and linking back to the importance of youths in preserving the overall culture, more efforts are required to reduce Western influences that may possibly erode their authentic culture. To put it simply, if youths do not preserve their culture now, Icelandic culture will be lost.
More can be read from this article with the link below
http://grapevine.is/Home/ReadArticle/How-Not-to-be-Icelandic
Recently, there has been an initiative by Icelandic government to attract visitors, following the incident of volcanic eruptions which deterred many from travelling to Iceland.
This is the website: www.inspiredbyiceland.com
Well, this is the possible cultural impact on the country in the future from my point of view. Based on the information above, tourists numbers from European regions and North America had been consistent. Given that more people will travel to Iceland, there will be more shopping and more cultural visits, therefore there may be further influences on Icelandic culture from other parts of Europe and America.
As for some of the positive impacts, the locals are more motivated to showcase their art exhibitions on the streets of Reykjavik. Visitors are able to buy the art pieces, small sculptures, postcards from the locals along the streets of Reykjavik. Through interactions with the locals, there will be an exchange of knowledge between the locals and visitors. Other positive impacts of the authentic culture in Iceland include the raised socio-cultural awareness. As more people visit Iceland, it means that more people are now aware of their culture in Iceland. In general, visitors help to enhance the overall cultural scene in Iceland.
The most common negative cultural impact will be the possible loss of identity and culture, known as the demonstration effect. In the heart of Reykjavik, there is a shopping mall named Smáralind, what matters more are the shops that can be found in the shopping mall. They include top brands such as Zara, Hugo Boss, Dorothy Perkins, Levi‘s, Topshop. Instead of preserving the street of Reykjavik, Americanised malls are built, therefore destroying Icelandic authentic culture.
They are built mainly due to consumer demands; visitors can claim 15% tourist rebate on purchases are over ISK 4,000 and the prices are cheaper as compared to their own countries. It benefits both Iceland's economy and its visitors, but at the same time this causes negative cultural impact.
Shopping with 15% rebate for tourists - http://www.visiticeland.com/Seedo/Shopping/
The media also played its part in eroding Iceland's culture, influencing the minds of the younger generation with American TV shows. As quoted from an article, "There is entire generation of Icelanders who know more about American Idol, Friends and American brand names than Icelandic poets."
As illustrated from the article and linking back to the importance of youths in preserving the overall culture, more efforts are required to reduce Western influences that may possibly erode their authentic culture. To put it simply, if youths do not preserve their culture now, Icelandic culture will be lost.
More can be read from this article with the link below
http://grapevine.is/Home/ReadArticle/How-Not-to-be-Icelandic
Recently, there has been an initiative by Icelandic government to attract visitors, following the incident of volcanic eruptions which deterred many from travelling to Iceland.
This is the website: www.inspiredbyiceland.com
Well, this is the possible cultural impact on the country in the future from my point of view. Based on the information above, tourists numbers from European regions and North America had been consistent. Given that more people will travel to Iceland, there will be more shopping and more cultural visits, therefore there may be further influences on Icelandic culture from other parts of Europe and America.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Authenticity of Icelandic Culture
To accurately appraise the authenticity of culture from a tourist point of view, several reviews from www.tripadvisor.com will be used. TripAdvisor® is the world's largest travel site, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features.
In Iceland, one of the activities that tourists engaged themselves in is Horseback Riding on the Icelandic horse, part of Icelandic unique culture. Here are some of the reviews from the travellers about the activity.
“Fun and Memorable Icelandic Experience!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 27, 2011
We did a private afternoon tour on November 21, 2011 with 4 adults and 2 children after arriving in Reykjavik that AM from the States. Pick up from the owner Becca was as scheduled. She is friendly, kind, funny and genuinely part of the hi-lite of the tour! We were given detailed instructions about riding the horses before getting on them, thankfully, as each of us had only ridden horses a couple of times. Becca ensured that we were comfortable with riding before venturing on. The scenery was beautiful and the ride was a perfect pace. It was a great way to spend our first afternoon in Iceland! Thank you for such an awesome experience!
Nade70
“AWESOME PEOPLE AND A GREAT TIME”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 20, 2011
Had great time with Begga and her Family. She took into fact that out of my group of 3 we had all levels of riding experience -- Me with the most, one novice and one just above novice level. she took her time explained everything and did not make any of us feel uncomfortable at all.
We had a great time and had some AWESOME views and photos of the surrounding area.
When i take my daughters with me next time we will be visiting Islenski Hesturinn, The Icelandic Horse again.
A must do when in Reykjavik.
Bcknight68
For more reviews of the horseriding activity, they can be found in the link provided.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189970-d2069784-Reviews-Islenski_Hesturinn_The_Icelandic_Horse_Riding_Tours-Reykjavik.html
Almost all of the reviews are positive for this horseriding activity. They reflect on the genuine experience they had, service offered and whether if it is up to their personal expectations. From what I can infer through all the reviews, the tourists felt that is was worth their time and many recommended this activity to the readers.
In Iceland, one of the activities that tourists engaged themselves in is Horseback Riding on the Icelandic horse, part of Icelandic unique culture. Here are some of the reviews from the travellers about the activity.
“Fun and Memorable Icelandic Experience!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 27, 2011
We did a private afternoon tour on November 21, 2011 with 4 adults and 2 children after arriving in Reykjavik that AM from the States. Pick up from the owner Becca was as scheduled. She is friendly, kind, funny and genuinely part of the hi-lite of the tour! We were given detailed instructions about riding the horses before getting on them, thankfully, as each of us had only ridden horses a couple of times. Becca ensured that we were comfortable with riding before venturing on. The scenery was beautiful and the ride was a perfect pace. It was a great way to spend our first afternoon in Iceland! Thank you for such an awesome experience!
Nade70
“AWESOME PEOPLE AND A GREAT TIME”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 20, 2011
Had great time with Begga and her Family. She took into fact that out of my group of 3 we had all levels of riding experience -- Me with the most, one novice and one just above novice level. she took her time explained everything and did not make any of us feel uncomfortable at all.
We had a great time and had some AWESOME views and photos of the surrounding area.
When i take my daughters with me next time we will be visiting Islenski Hesturinn, The Icelandic Horse again.
A must do when in Reykjavik.
Bcknight68
For more reviews of the horseriding activity, they can be found in the link provided.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g189970-d2069784-Reviews-Islenski_Hesturinn_The_Icelandic_Horse_Riding_Tours-Reykjavik.html
Almost all of the reviews are positive for this horseriding activity. They reflect on the genuine experience they had, service offered and whether if it is up to their personal expectations. From what I can infer through all the reviews, the tourists felt that is was worth their time and many recommended this activity to the readers.
Indigenous Group
The ethnic groups in Iceland are homogeneous rather than indigenous. Their descendants consist of Scandinavians and Norse, which made up 94% of the entire population. There are not really any specific group of indigenous people in Iceland and the following are several quotes from different sources to back the statement.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ic.html
http://www.arcticcentre.org/?DeptID=7768
(Click on the image, right click on the image, select "View Image", click on the image once to enlarge it)
The picture above is very useful to illustrate the various indigenous groups around the Artic regions. Iceland is not included as it does not have an indigenous group of people.
"Arctic indigenous peoples include for example Saami in circumpolar areas of Finland, Sweden, Norway and Northwest Russia, Nenets, Khanty, Evenk and Chukchi in Russia, Aleut, Yupik and Inuit (Iñupiat) in Alaska, Inuit (Inuvialuit) in Canada and Inuit (Kalaallit) in Greenland. All of the above-mentioned countries except Iceland have indigenous peoples living within their Arctic territory."
http://www.arcticcentre.org/?DeptID=7768
"Indigenous people - we don't have them in Iceland actually, but you would have in the (unintelligible) polar north the Inuit, or what used to be called the Eskimos. The Sami, or what used to be called the Lapps in Scandinavia and a number of other groups in Russian north and the American north."
This website also explains about the rights of indigenous people and impacts of climate change in the region
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18690185
"Iceland and Greenland in the north were reached by Scandinavian sailors sometime around the year 1000."
http://www.wisegeek.com/which-islands-lack-an-indigenous-population.htm
"Among Icelanders the discourse on issues of the indigenous or aboriginal or First Nation people of the North is marked by the fact that Iceland does not have an indigenous population – that is, in the meaningful salient sense of the concept indigenous."
http://www.svs.is/JHI_PresentationCanadianGGroundtable.pdf
The Norse (Vikings) and the Scandinavians makes up the entire population of Iceland. Very much similar to that of its descendants, Scandinavia is filled with arts and culture. Architectures include concert halls, museums, culture houses filled the streets of Scandinavia.
http://visitscandinavia.com.au/DestinationsAndAttractions/Scandinavia.1/ArtsCulture.5.aspx
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ic.html
http://www.arcticcentre.org/?DeptID=7768
(Click on the image, right click on the image, select "View Image", click on the image once to enlarge it)
The picture above is very useful to illustrate the various indigenous groups around the Artic regions. Iceland is not included as it does not have an indigenous group of people.
"Arctic indigenous peoples include for example Saami in circumpolar areas of Finland, Sweden, Norway and Northwest Russia, Nenets, Khanty, Evenk and Chukchi in Russia, Aleut, Yupik and Inuit (Iñupiat) in Alaska, Inuit (Inuvialuit) in Canada and Inuit (Kalaallit) in Greenland. All of the above-mentioned countries except Iceland have indigenous peoples living within their Arctic territory."
http://www.arcticcentre.org/?DeptID=7768
"Indigenous people - we don't have them in Iceland actually, but you would have in the (unintelligible) polar north the Inuit, or what used to be called the Eskimos. The Sami, or what used to be called the Lapps in Scandinavia and a number of other groups in Russian north and the American north."
This website also explains about the rights of indigenous people and impacts of climate change in the region
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=18690185
"Iceland and Greenland in the north were reached by Scandinavian sailors sometime around the year 1000."
http://www.wisegeek.com/which-islands-lack-an-indigenous-population.htm
"Among Icelanders the discourse on issues of the indigenous or aboriginal or First Nation people of the North is marked by the fact that Iceland does not have an indigenous population – that is, in the meaningful salient sense of the concept indigenous."
http://www.svs.is/JHI_PresentationCanadianGGroundtable.pdf
The Norse (Vikings) and the Scandinavians makes up the entire population of Iceland. Very much similar to that of its descendants, Scandinavia is filled with arts and culture. Architectures include concert halls, museums, culture houses filled the streets of Scandinavia.
http://visitscandinavia.com.au/DestinationsAndAttractions/Scandinavia.1/ArtsCulture.5.aspx
Culture in Iceland
Iceland has only limited amount of available resources, it is interesting to note that locals think up of creative ideas to work within the constraints. It is also seen in some parts of their country how they integrate designing in their everyday living, such as recycling of materials and eco-friendly building structures. The increasing amount of green buildings in Iceland enhanced the culture of the society through eco-friendly practices.
Some of its interesting features:
-Double-glass facade that assists with the building’s natural ventilation scheme, daylighting and weather shielding
-These ice crystals made from glass formations diffuse light as it enters the building, reducing glare as well as heat gain
-Iceland is located at a high Northern latitude, so the glass is designed to take advantage of low sun angles.
Green building example - http://inhabitat.com/stunning-icelandic-institute-is-an-ice-frosted-eco-citadel/iceland-institute-of-natural-history-2/?extend=1
Through Iceland's example, it is evident that sometimes culture can also be shaped by nature. Limitations and lack of resources partially helped in shaping the Icelandic culture of building structures. Usually, culture is determined by the indigenous group of people who settled in the country.
Icelandic cuisines are not for the faint-hearted. Hakarl (decomposed shark), gravlax (salmon fish marinated with spices), hangikjot (smoked lamb), and slatur (delicacies made from sheep intestines) are some of the popular cuisines in Iceland.
http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/iceland-economy-people-culture-and-flag.html
Apart from innovative designs as part of the Icelandic culture, other cultures in Iceland revolves around arts and music.
In Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, along the streets and alleys there will be project spaces, diverse artist run organisations and established galleries that offers its visitors an insight into the emerging scene. The museums in Reykjavik and surroundings offer exhibitions ranging from art historical revisions to contemporary projects as well.
http://www.iceland.is/arts-culture/visual-arts/
In terms of music, it can be categorised into classical music, opera, jazz and contemporary music. There are numerous annual music festivals in Iceland that showcase the colourful music scene with performances. Icelandic music is closely interlinked with the Nordic breed of music, pulsating the native ethnicity with folk and pop music that are religious in nature
The icon in Iceland is the Icelandic Horse. It has been purebred for a thousand years, treated with respect and raised to the highest level. The horse is a favorite among Icelanders and can be seen in art and literature all through Iceland’s history. It holds a special place in the mind of the nation. Thousands of people in Iceland own horses for the simple pleasure of riding out.
http://www.fhb.is/Files/hestarensk72.pdf
Some of its interesting features:
-Double-glass facade that assists with the building’s natural ventilation scheme, daylighting and weather shielding
-These ice crystals made from glass formations diffuse light as it enters the building, reducing glare as well as heat gain
-Iceland is located at a high Northern latitude, so the glass is designed to take advantage of low sun angles.
Green building example - http://inhabitat.com/stunning-icelandic-institute-is-an-ice-frosted-eco-citadel/iceland-institute-of-natural-history-2/?extend=1
Through Iceland's example, it is evident that sometimes culture can also be shaped by nature. Limitations and lack of resources partially helped in shaping the Icelandic culture of building structures. Usually, culture is determined by the indigenous group of people who settled in the country.
Icelandic cuisines are not for the faint-hearted. Hakarl (decomposed shark), gravlax (salmon fish marinated with spices), hangikjot (smoked lamb), and slatur (delicacies made from sheep intestines) are some of the popular cuisines in Iceland.
http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/iceland-economy-people-culture-and-flag.html
Apart from innovative designs as part of the Icelandic culture, other cultures in Iceland revolves around arts and music.
In Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, along the streets and alleys there will be project spaces, diverse artist run organisations and established galleries that offers its visitors an insight into the emerging scene. The museums in Reykjavik and surroundings offer exhibitions ranging from art historical revisions to contemporary projects as well.
http://www.iceland.is/arts-culture/visual-arts/
In terms of music, it can be categorised into classical music, opera, jazz and contemporary music. There are numerous annual music festivals in Iceland that showcase the colourful music scene with performances. Icelandic music is closely interlinked with the Nordic breed of music, pulsating the native ethnicity with folk and pop music that are religious in nature
The icon in Iceland is the Icelandic Horse. It has been purebred for a thousand years, treated with respect and raised to the highest level. The horse is a favorite among Icelanders and can be seen in art and literature all through Iceland’s history. It holds a special place in the mind of the nation. Thousands of people in Iceland own horses for the simple pleasure of riding out.
http://www.fhb.is/Files/hestarensk72.pdf
Friday, November 25, 2011
Iceland!
The country that I have selected for my assignment is Iceland. I am going to share some of my perceptions of Iceland which are not influenced by any other external factors. Iceland in my opinion should be rich in their own culture, whereby it can be very different and unique from their neighbouring countries. As I felt that not many people actually heard of or known where Iceland was, therefore I perceive Iceland as a country with its own authentic culture not influenced by people from other countries. Like most European countries, I believe that the people in Iceland will spend quite a bit of their spare time appreciating arts and music.
I feel that the people in Iceland celebrate festivals and special occasions similar to other European cities. Since entertainment in Europe is generally focused on music and arts, in my opinion there will be more music festivals and art exhibitions dedicated to its people in Iceland as well.
After the research, here is the overview of the facts of Iceland.
Iceland is located at Northern Europe and its people consists of descendants of Scandinavians and Norse. The estimated population size of Iceland as of July 2011 is 311,508. Icelandic, English, Nordic languages and German are the languages spoken in the country. The culture of Iceland, just as what I perceived, are mainly focused on design, literature, visual arts, music, film and performing arts. Their culture and passion for arts are evident even in the streets of their country.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ic.html
http://www.statice.is/?pageid=452&itemid=bfd2aafb-84f5-4ec9-81e3-461a43276bca
I feel that the people in Iceland celebrate festivals and special occasions similar to other European cities. Since entertainment in Europe is generally focused on music and arts, in my opinion there will be more music festivals and art exhibitions dedicated to its people in Iceland as well.
After the research, here is the overview of the facts of Iceland.
Iceland is located at Northern Europe and its people consists of descendants of Scandinavians and Norse. The estimated population size of Iceland as of July 2011 is 311,508. Icelandic, English, Nordic languages and German are the languages spoken in the country. The culture of Iceland, just as what I perceived, are mainly focused on design, literature, visual arts, music, film and performing arts. Their culture and passion for arts are evident even in the streets of their country.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ic.html
http://www.statice.is/?pageid=452&itemid=bfd2aafb-84f5-4ec9-81e3-461a43276bca
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