Gallery Talk: Unnur Valdís Kristjánsdóttir

Product designers make things and create experience. They identify needs and opportunities while also taking into account production processes, choice of materials and the impact on the environment.

Here, a handful of outstanding projects have been selected, each of which reflects a specific design approach, thus giving an insight into key trends in Icelandic product designing in recent years. The designers and companies selected, each have their own emphasis in their design. The projects show the diversity in the field and the opportunities on offer to society by utilizing the forces of creative thinking.

Unnur Valdís Kristjánsdóttir deals with experience design and will talk about her works.

The float cap first came on the market in 2011. Since then it has taken on a life of its own, regardless of the people behind it. It has opened up a world of relaxation, togetherness and nature experience. Fifteen swimming pools in Iceland now offer so-called Samflot (Floating Together) and hundreds of people enjoy floating relaxation in organised floating each week.

The product has thus led to innovation in the tourist industry and the health sector which offer many kinds of floating and water relaxation. We have also seen the birth of floating events, called Heilsudjamm (Health Fun), where the focus is on enhancing the neurotransmitters, dining and togetherness in water. The cap has also encouraged interesting neologisms. 

The float cap is an example of a simple but brilliant idea, based on Iceland´s long established bathing tradition. It is also well in line with the modern day ethos of mindfulness and health consciousness. The float cap is also an example of an idea which is followed through, given time and then allowed to evolve on its own terms. 

Free with admission.