Art and Craft Galleries in Austurland
The region’s best art installations and landmark sculptures
Reindeer sculpture, Sölvi Víkingur Aðalbjarnarson in Egilsstaðir
Austurland is the only region in Iceland where you’ll find wild reindeer. They were brought over from northern Norway between 1771 and 1787 and released in several parts of the country. However, they didn’t survive anywhere except here in the East. The landscape and conditions clearly suited them, and today the herds continue to thrive in the wild. The sculpture is a tribute to the region’s special connection to these animals.
Eggin í Gleðivík in Djúpivogur
This well-known outdoor art installation comprises 34 granite eggs in a row, balanced on a row of concrete plinths that stretches for 200 metres along the shore. It’s the work of Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson. They represent the various birds that make their nest in the surrounding area.
Tvísöngur Sound Sculpture
Located above the port of Seyðisfjörður is a curious cluster of concrete mounds known for their acoustics. Inside they are hollow; in fact the whole thing is large enough that you can step inside it. They were created by a German artist called Lukas Kühne, who named his work Tvísöngur (The Duet). They each have a different tone; together the domes produce the five-note harmony common in traditional Icelandic music.
Galleries to visit
Skaftfell Art Gallery, Seyðisfjörður
Skaftfell is East Iceland’s centre for visual arts, serving both as a creative workspace and an exhibition venue for contemporary art. Details about upcoming shows and workshops can be found on its website.
Art Gallerí Pétur Behrens, Egilsstaðir
This gallery displays the work of Pétur Behrens and it’s located on his farm Finnsstaðaholt, which you’ll find 3 km outside Egilsstaðir. This talented artist was born in Germany but has lived for decades in Iceland. The farm breeds Icelandic horses and this interest in all things equine features prominently in his work.
Sláturhúsið, Egilsstaðir
Sláturhúsið Art Centre in Egilsstaðir is a hub for contemporary art and creative collaboration in East Iceland. Located in a former slaughterhouse, the space now supports artists through residencies, exhibitions, and workshops. With a strong focus on community engagement and experimentation, it’s a great place to experience the region’s vibrant and evolving art scene.
Local markets worth seeking out
Hús Handanna craft & design shop in Egilsstaðir
Hús Handanna in Egilsstaðir is an environmentally conscious lifestyle store that showcases the creativity of East Iceland. Inside you’ll find a carefully curated selection of locally made arts and crafts, along with food products created from regional ingredients. Whether you’re after a unique art print, a handmade cushion, or a thoughtful gift, this is a lovely spot to browse and support local makers.
Salthúsmarkaðurinn in Stöðvarfjörður
An unassuming white building in Stöðvarfjörður is the base of a handicrafts collective. Run by a local senior citizens’ association, throughout the summer the Salt House Market is the place to come to find locally made crafts. Pick up all manner of things including knitted items – a lopapeysa sweater makes a great souvenir – and local jam.
Bakkabúð in Djúpivogur
Bakkabúð in Djúpivogur is the place to go if you’re after a meaningful souvenir from your time in Iceland. This inviting shop offers a thoughtfully selected mix of locally made crafts and artworks, alongside pieces from stylish Scandinavian design brands.
Sandholt & Co in Seyðisfjörður
Sandholt & Co in Seyðisfjörður is a cozy design and lifestyle store tucked into one of the town’s colourful old houses. Inside you’ll find a carefully chosen selection of homewares, accessories, and handmade goods — many with a Nordic or local touch.