”In this light we are adopting a new Constitution, the supreme law of the land, to be observed by all. With equal opportunities for everyone.”
The artists team Libia Castro & Ólafur Ólafsson invited a group of composers, musicians, organizations, activists and members of the public to join them in creating a multivocal music and visual art performance bringing to life all 114 articles of the proposed new Icelandic constitution from 2011.
The history of the Icelandic Constitution is tainted with Nordic Colonialism since it was implemented when Iceland was under Danish rule. In 1944 when Iceland became an independent state the Danish constitution from 1849 became the new Icelandic constitution with a few additions about the position of the Icelandic Head of State. Since then there haven’t been any modification to this constitution but many have tried.
The new constitution was written in response to the Icelandic public‘s demand following the 2008 political and economic crisis, with the key aim of contributing to a fairer and more democratic society. The project gained international attention for its innovative, democratic approach. On October 20, 2012, the nation voted yes to its new constitution. Nonetheless, it has still not been ratified by the Icelandic parliament.
Eight years later, Libia & Ólafur and the Magic Team wish to harness the power and magic of the arts to reflect on and tackle the public‘s demand for a new constitution, which remains just as urgent. The event took place on October 3rd 2021 at the Reykjavík Art Museum Hafnarhúsið / Harbour House. The project was realized by Cycle Music and Art Festival and Reykjavik Arts Festival.
Full list of participants and more information:
on Cycle Music and Art Festival’s webpage
