DesignMarch: Founders of The Icelandic Graphic Design Association
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DesignMarch: Founders of The Icelandic Graphic Design Association
Hafnarhús
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The year 2023 marked the 70th anniversary of the Icelandic Graphic Design Association (FÍT). It is therefore appropriate to highlight the work of the first generation of Icelandic graphic designers and the association’s founders.
The early days of FÍT can be attributed to Ágústa and her brother Halldór Pétursson, who completed their studies in commercial art in Denmark. Later, Halldór went on to further his studies in the United States of America. On November 23rd, 1953 Halldór founded The Icelandic graphic design association with his sister Ágústa Pétursdóttir, Atli Már Árnason, Stefán Jónsson, Tryggvi Magnússon, Ásgeir Júlíusson and Jörundur Pálsson. This event took place in Halldór’s and Ágústa’s studio space in Reykjavík.
All of them had previously worked as commercial illustrators and have undoubtedly left a significant impact on graphic design and the visual history in Iceland through packaging, labels, national symbols, illustrations, book covers, and more.
The Icelandic Graphic Design Association’s main goal has always been to promote the profession. Initially the association was founded to coordinate price lists and create platforms for members to socialise, although designers had worked together since 1946 when it came to pricing. In 1957 the association counted 11 members, but today there are more than 300 members.
The exhibition is open at the following times
Wednesday: 17:00-18:00
Thursday: 10:00-22:00
Friday: closed
Saturday 10:00-17:00
Sunday 10:00-17:00