
Symposium | STEINA
Tryggvagata 17, 101 Reykjavík
Dates
Hafnarhús
03, October 2025
Open from 1.00pm - 5.00pm
General Admission See on official website
A symposium in connection with the exhibition Playback of Steina Vasulka's works in Hafnarhúsið Friday the 3rd of October 13:00-17:00.
Registration for the event is needed.
Programme
• 13:05 – 13:20 – Museum directors
Opening remarks by museum directors, setting the stage for the symposium
• 13:20 – 14:00 – Larisa Dryansky
Larisa Dryansky explores the unique position Steina Vasulka holds as a pioneering figure in the development of video art, highlighting her contributions and influence on the medium.
• 14:05 – 14:25 – Helga and Natalie
Co-curators Helga and Natalie present the conceptual framework behind the retrospective exhibition. They discuss their curatorial research process and share insights into how the exhibition was received at their respective institutions.
• Break – 15 minutes
• 14:40 – 15:00 – Chris Hill
Chris Hill reflects on her longstanding association with Steina and offers a vivid account of the creative and experimental atmosphere that shaped Steina and Woody Vasulka’s early work.
• 15:00 – 15:20 – Lenka Dolanová
Lenka Dolanová presents her research on Steina and Woody Vasulka’s technological innovations and experimental approaches to video art, as detailed in her book Dialogue with the Demons of the Tools.
• 15:20 – 15:40 – Sigríður Regína Sigurþórsdóttir
Sigríður Regína discusses her PhD research, focusing on her use of the Vasulka Chamber and her direct access to Steina. She also shares her role in organizing the exhibition through her academic work.
• 15:40 – 16:00 – Margrét Elísabet Ólafsdóttir
Margrét Elísabet examines Steina’s connection to the Icelandic art scene, the impact she has had locally, and how she has incorporated Icelandic nature and environment into her artistic practice.
• Break – 15 minutes
• 16:15 - 17:00 – Panel discussion on new technologies.
Moderated by Æsa Sigurjónsdóttir, this panel features Jennifer Helia DeFelice, Joey Heinen, Chris Hill, and Sirra Sigrún Sigurðardóttir. The discussion will explore Steina’s artistic legacy in contemporary art and the evolving role of new media in current artistic practices.
• 17:00 Closing remarks – directors
Final thoughts and reflections from the museum directors, followed by a reception with drinks.