It is important to revise the history of Nordic modernism and to bring into the spotlight the complex connections which linked artist across geographical borders in the first half of the 20th century. It is also important to examine how post-colonial aspects have influenced our understanding of art history and how political changes have influenced the canon. Who is included – and who is excluded?

    Modernist sculpture holds a strong place in 20th century art and Ólafsson's legacy holds a strong part in the Nordic history of sculpture. At the same time his work transcends local modernism as it reflects the controversy of 20th century art in a larger context. In this retrospective all the different aspects of Ólafsson's work will be represented through more than 50 of his most prominent pieces. The exhibition will trace his abilities to excel in classical and avant-garde sculpture and show how architectural principles of form, light and space are always present in his works. The audience will also discover the variety of sculptural practice from stone-carving, to avant-garde wood pieces, collages, and classical portraits moulded in bronze.

    Furthermore, the exhibition will show art-historical contexts through Danish surrealist and abstract movements and bring into light Ólafsson's participation in groundbreaking exhibitions as Linien (1937), Skandinaverne (1939), and the Tent exhibition Bellevue (1941) designed by The Danish architect Finn Juhl, who took inspiration from Ólafsson's works as he saw his abstract sculptures as an important element in the construction of a creative environment. Ólafsson's sculptures breathe elegance, material expression, and visual and tactile strength. This exhibition will strenghten his legacy in the history of classical modernism.
Æsa Sigurjónsdóttir Art Historian