Hi Neighbour,

‍

This week we’re back with one of my most cherished features: the “Meet the Denizens” series. It's a collection of interviews spotlighting the remarkable, talented, and inspiring individuals within our Denizen community. This week's instalment builds upon our ever growing catalogue of events, specifically our vernissages done in collaboration with wonderfully talented creatives from all around the world.

We've been exceptionally fortunate to welcome extraordinary human beings into our ecosystem. Listening to their stories, drawing inspiration from their journeys, and becoming a part of their universe, even if just for a moment, is what truly drives us all. So, without further ado, allow me to introduce you to Vigdís Erla Guttormsdóttir—a talented Icelandic artist whose captivating artworks are currently gracing the walls (and available for purchase!) at Denizen Eiswerk in Berlin.

Welcome to Denizen,  Vigdís!

Please tell us a little bit about yourself!

"I’m from Reykjavík Iceland, where I grew up with my three sisters and brother. I’ve always had the joy of creativity and don't really remember myself without it. I'm very thankful to my parents for being so patient and open-minded with me and my sisters, they gave us the space to be ourselves. I guess that’s also why I feel like I can do everything all at once. I’m a full-time freelance film editor, photographer and painter. I like to connect with people, listen and tell stories. I think all of these three media allow me to do so. 

I moved to Berlin in 2013 for Film studies, so I’ve been here for over a decade. Let’s see where the next 10 years take me." 

Vigdís Erla Guttormsdóttir (b. 1992, Reykjavík) is an Icelandic multi-media artist based in Berlin. She holds a degree in multimedia design from Borgarholtsskóli in Reykjavík, and a Bachelor of Arts in film and motion design from BTK, Berliner Technische Kunsthochschule in Berlin.

Instagram: @vigerla

Website: vigerla.com

‍

As part of these mini-interview series, we always ask Denizens a few short questions.

What makes you happy?

"It makes me happy when I hear my favourite song, dance with my partner and my friends, hug my family which I don’t get to do so often, and honestly just being on my own, thinking, letting my mind go places, writing ideas down and then start the process of creating them. I also have the biggest smile on my face when I get my films developed and re-discovering moments. "

What was the best advice you've been given?

"Listen to your gut. It’s mostly always right."

What did you want to become when you were 5 years old?

"Exactly what I am today, I wanted to become an artist."

What is your guilty pleasure?

"I don’t think it’s very guilty, but a toast with peanut butter, banana  and (vegan) cheese. Is this weird? I love it.."

What does your perfect day look like?

"Spending the day in nature with my partner Grant, and our dog Benji. Preferably by the ocean while the salty air and sun's warmth embrace us. Mornings start with coffee, evenings with wine. It's simple bliss in nature's arms."

What brought you to Denizen?

‍"Lovely Caterina, who used to work there got in touch with me, she had seen my previous exhibition ‘Vinkonur' at Art House Rising and thought it would be a perfect fit at Denizen."

What do you like about Denizen?

"I like how homey it feels. I noticed at my vernissage that people stayed for a long time, which is unusual for exhibitions. People really feel comfortable here, which is exactly the kind of space you want to be in. "

(🫶 from all of us!)

Bummed out you missed the vernissage and the chance to see the artwork? Do not worry, the "All in one" exhibition is on display at Denizen until next Friday, March 22nd! Come check it out or grab a coworking day pass while surrounded by this Icelandic artist's creative pieces.

‍

Cheers!

‍

The Denizen Team