The Granary (Kornhúsið) 08.05.2021

Karólína, the Weaver

Karólína Guðmundsdóttir (1897-1981) learned weaving in Copenhagen, and for several decades she ran a weaving atelier on Ásvallagata in Reykjavík.

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She wove upholstery and curtain fabrics for public bodies, businesses and homes, where the colours and textures harmonised with their surroundings. Her embroidery fabrics were used in school pupils‘ needlework projects for many years, and embroidered wall-hangings and cushions from Karólína‘s atelier adorned many Icelandic homes. She was thus an influence upon Icelanders‘ home furnishings and taste, and in addition her work led people to recognise the fine qualities of Icelandic wool, and changed attitudes to crafts and needlework.

Karólína sat at her loom for over 50 years, initially working on her own, and later as a businesswoman, providing for her family. She also taught needlework, and was chair of the Icelandic Handicrafts Association 1923-27. She had extensive knowledge of the potential of the loom and development of patterns. Her work is characterised by precision, accuracy and a beautiful interplay of colour and pattern; the aesthetic and the practical aspects were equally highly valued. Karólína made high-quality, innovative hand-weaving, in which Icelandic craft traditions were combined with international trends in design and crafts.

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Karólína við vefstólinn
Karólína við vefstólinn á efri árum

Info

Info

Árbær Open Air Museum

Kistuhyl

110 Reykjavík

Tel: (+354) 411 6320

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Opening hours

Sept-May 13:00-17:00

June-August 10:00-17:00

daily guided tours at 13:00

Christmas & New Year

Closed 24-26 Dec and 31 Dec-1 Jan.

Guided tours on 24 and 26 Dec at 1 PM

Easter

Maundy Thursday 13:00-17:00

Good Friday - closed

Easter Sunday - closed

Easter Monday 13:00-17:00

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2,150 ISK

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Free admission

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Free

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1,320 ISK

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7,450 ISK

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