Reykjavík: Multi-Sensory Art Installation Chromo Sapiens

Reykjavík’s latest captivating art installation, Chromo Sapiens, invites visitors on a multi-sensory journey through vibrant landscapes of color and texture. Created by acclaimed Icelandic artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir, the immersive experience utilizes synthetic hair extensions to blur the lines between observer and observed. Accompanied by atmospheric soundscapes, this innovative exhibition encourages self-discovery and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature, folklore, and human diversity. What lies in store for those who venture into this extraordinary world?

Key Points

• Chromo Sapiens is a multi-sensory art installation in Reykjavík, Iceland, created by Icelandic artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir, known as Shoplifter.
• The installation features three vibrant caves crafted with multicolored synthetic hair extensions and accompanied by synesthetic soundscapes from the Icelandic band HAM.
• Visitors are encouraged to engage with the tactile environment and embrace their inner "Chromo Sapiens" for a self-reflective experience.
• Tickets are priced from Kč 475 per person, with a reserve now & pay later option and a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The installation is located at Höfuðstöðin in Reykjavík, is fully wheelchair accessible, and accepts walk-ins with no time slots, ensuring easy access for all visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Artistic Vision and Inspiration

Although born and raised in Iceland, artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir, also known as Shoplifter, draws inspiration from a range of global influences.

Chromo Sapiens, her critically acclaimed multi-sensory installation, showcases her signature style – a vibrant exploration of color, texture, and the human experience. Inspired by the natural world, Icelandic folklore, and the diversity of humanity, Arnardóttir crafts immersive environments using synthetic hair extensions.

Visitors are invited to shed their preconceptions and embrace their inner "Chromo Sapiens" – a transformation that encourages a deeper understanding of the self and the world.

Immersive Sensory Experience

Stepping into Chromo Sapiens, visitors are immediately enveloped in a captivating sensory experience.

Multicolored synthetic hair extensions create three vibrant caves, inviting exploration. Synesthetic soundscapes from HAM accompany the visual feast, immersing guests in a realm where the senses intertwine.

The installation encourages visitors to wander, touch, and engage with the tactile environment. As they navigate the chromatic chambers, the distinction between observer and observed blurs, transforming them into Chromo Sapiens.

The all-encompassing experience invites self-reflection, challenging visitors to ponder their own inner landscapes.

Ticketing and Reservations

Tickets for Chromo Sapiens are priced from Kč 475 per person, and visitors can reserve their spot using a "reserve now & pay later" option. This allows booking without immediate payment.

Guests can also cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The ticket includes entry to the installation and a complimentary coffee or soft drink.

The installation is open daily, and walk-ins are accepted as there are no time slots. This flexible ticketing system ensures easy access to the immersive Chromo Sapiens experience.

Venue and Accessibility

Chromo Sapiens is located at Höfuðstöðin in Reykjavík, Iceland, which opened in 2022 in restored army barracks.

The venue features a gift shop, café & bar with outdoor seating, and event space. The installation is wheelchair accessible and open daily, with no time slots needed for entry; walk-ins are accepted.

Visitors can fully enjoy the colorful, textured environment without restrictions on their exploration.

The convenient location and accessibility ensure that Chromo Sapiens is a welcoming and inclusive experience for all who wish to transform into Chromo Sapiens.

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Visitor Duration and Exploration

Although the experience lasts for 1 hour from the first activation, visitors are invited to fully immerse themselves in the installation’s colors, textures, and sounds, encouraging exploration of their inner landscape.

The Chromo Sapiens experience encourages visitors to:

Wander through vibrant, hair-covered caves. Immerse in ambient soundscapes. Touch and interact with soft, tactile surfaces. Reflect on emotional and sensory responses. Emerge transformed as Chromo Sapiens.

• Wander through vibrant, hair-covered caves

• Immerse themselves in the ambient soundscapes

• Touch and interact with the soft, tactile surfaces

• Reflect on their emotional and sensory responses

• Emerge transformed, having journeyed as Chromo Sapiens.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Visitors have provided generally positive feedback on the Chromo Sapiens experience, awarding it an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars based on 13 reviews.

Highlights include high ratings for the guide (5/5) and value for money (4.5/5). Visitors have described the installation as a unique experience, with some appreciating the complimentary drink token.

While the feedback is mostly favorable, a few reviewers noted areas for improvement, such as the duration of the experience and the accessibility of the venue.

Unique Collaboration With HAM

The Chromo Sapiens installation features a unique collaboration with the Icelandic band HAM, whose soundscapes accompany the immersive experience.

The atmospheric compositions:

• Evoke the installation’s otherworldly ambiance

• Subtly shift and evolve as visitors explore the synthetic hair caves

• Blend organic and electronic elements, creating a captivating sonic landscape

• Heighten the senses and invite deeper contemplation of the artwork

• Transport visitors to a realm where the boundaries between sight, sound, and self become blurred.

This synergistic partnership elevates the Chromo Sapiens experience, immersing guests in a multisensory world.

Transformative Journey for Visitors

As visitors enter the Chromo Sapiens installation, they embark on a transformative journey that challenges their perceptions and invites them to explore their inner selves.

Immersed in the captivating colors, textures, and sounds, visitors are encouraged to let go of their preconceptions and embrace the experience.

Captivating colors, textures, and sounds invite visitors to let go of preconceptions and embrace the transformative experience.

The installation’s three colorful caves, made from synthetic hair extensions, transport them to a realm where the boundaries between art and self-discovery blur.

Exiting the installation, visitors emerge as Chromo Sapiens, having undergone a profound, sensory-driven transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Did the Artist Come up With the Concept for Chromo Sapiens?

The artist, Shoplifter/Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir, was inspired by the idea of transforming visitors into "Chromo Sapiens" – a new species of humans defined by their vibrant and colorful synthetic hair extensions experience.

What Materials Were Used to Create the Colorful Caves?

The colorful caves were constructed using synthetic hair extensions in a variety of vibrant hues. This unique material creates a captivating, tactile experience for visitors as they explore the Chromo Sapiens installation.

Is There a Recommended Way to Experience the Installation?

The installation encourages visitors to fully immerse themselves, exploring the vibrant colors, textures, and sounds at their own pace. The experience lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to discover the installation’s transformative qualities.

Can Visitors Take Photos or Videos Inside the Exhibit?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and videos inside the exhibit. The immersive experience is designed to be captured and shared, allowing others to experience the vibrant colors and textures of Chromo Sapiens.

Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Visiting Chromo Sapiens?

There is no age limit or restrictions for visiting Chromo Sapiens. The installation is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all ages. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to enjoy the multi-sensory experience.

The Sum Up

Chromo Sapiens invites visitors to embark on a vibrant, multi-sensory journey that transcends the boundaries between art and nature. Through its captivating synthetic hair installations and atmospheric soundscapes, the exhibition encourages self-discovery and reflection on the beauty of diversity. Blurring the lines between observer and observed, Chromo Sapiens offers a transformative experience that celebrates the wonder of the natural world and the richness of Icelandic folklore.

You can check availability for your dates here: