REYKJAVÍK.- The Reykjavík Art Museum is set for a fresh chapter as Markús Þór Andrésson steps into the role of its new Director. Andrésson is a familiar face at the museum, having served as its Head of Exhibitions and Mediation since 2017.

His appointment comes after a thorough selection process, which saw seven applications for the prestigious position. Andrésson brings a wealth of experience, holding an MA in Curatorial Studies from Bard Center for Curatorial Studies in the U.S. and a BA in Fine Arts from the Iceland University of the Arts.

Markús Þór's connection to the Reykjavík Art Museum runs deep. He's been instrumental in countless exhibitions, overseen publications, and championed the museum's subjects within academic circles and to the wider public through his writing, talks, and guided tours. He’s also been a key international representative for the museum, notably contributing to projects like the "North and Down" exhibition. As a department head, he's a vital part of the museum's leadership team and serves as Deputy Director.

Beyond his work at the Reykjavík Art Museum, Andrésson boasts a long career as an independent curator, shaping exhibitions both in Iceland and abroad. His notable projects include "Sjónarhorn" (Perspective) in 2015, a permanent exhibition on Icelandic visual art heritage that was a collaboration of six different museums. He also curated the Icelandic pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 2009 and was part of the curatorial team for the Nordic Biennial Momentum in 2011. An accomplished writer, he's penned numerous articles and edited books on visual arts, lectured, and participated in countless symposia. He's even explored the multifaceted world of art as a documentary director and TV program producer.

The selection committee praised Andrésson's extensive knowledge of the museum's field, his leadership qualities, initiative, and his proven ability to guide Iceland's largest art museum forward. The committee included Steinþór Einarsson, Head of Culture and Sports for the City of Reykjavík; Auður Jörundsdóttir, Director of the Icelandic Visual Art Centre; and Hulda Stefánsdóttir, artist and Assistant Rector for Research at the Iceland University of the Arts.

Andrésson's five-year term, with the possibility of a five-year renewal, begins as he takes the reins from Ólöf Kristín Sigurðardóttir, who steps down after a decade of dedicated service.