Pétur Thomsen Named Artist Of The Year At Icelandic Art Prize 2025

The Icelandic Art Prize celebrated its eighth edition at Iðnó on March 20, recognising outstanding contributions to the Icelandic art scene. Photographer Pétur Thomsen was named the 2025 Artist of the Year for his exhibition Settlement, which was showcased at Hafnarborg this winter.

The honour, presented by Minister of Culture, Innovation, and Higher Education Logi Einarsson, comes with a prize of 1 million ISK. The jury praised Settlement for its meticulous execution and its ability to evoke a profound connection with nature. Thomsen’s mastery of photography enabled a meaningful dialogue between the exhibition and its viewers.

Helena Margrét Jónsdóttir received the Motivational Award of the Icelandic Art Prize 2025. The jury commended her captivating paintings for their imaginative qualities, drawing viewers into a dreamlike mental landscape. The award includes a prize of 500,000 ISK, and was presented by Shoplifter.

Honorary award

The 2025 Honorary Award by the Visual Art Council went to Erró. Recognised as one of Iceland’s most influential artists, Erró’s prolific career spans over six decades. While residing in Paris, he sent a video message to express his gratitude. His brother, Ari Trausti Guðmundsson, accepted the award on his behalf, presented by Reykjavík’s Mayor Heiða Björg Hilmisdóttir.

Additionally, the Visual Art Council has given awards for Retrospective of the Year to Transformation — Works by Gerður Helgadóttir at Gerðarsafn, Group Exhibition of the Year to 50/100/55 by the Textile Association, and Publication of the Year to FÖR by photographer Agnieszka Sosnowska.