Published on
December 2, 2025
Iceland is set to welcome a dynamic and culturally rich new chapter in its already vibrant arts scene. In October 2027, the Sequences festival, Reykjavík’s biennial art celebration, will see an exciting evolution as it embarks on its 13th edition. The festival, which began with a focus on video and performance art, will now be curated by two prominent figures in the art world, who bring fresh, global perspectives to Iceland’s creative community. The 2027 edition of Sequences is expected to strengthen Iceland’s position as a hub for international art while simultaneously boosting its growing tourism industry.
Expanding the Festival’s Cultural Reach
The Sequences Festival has long been a cornerstone of Iceland’s art scene, drawing attention from both local and international audiences. The event’s biennial nature allows it to curate an ever-changing, ever-evolving lineup of contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and installations. Historically known for its focus on video and performance art, the festival is evolving to embrace a broader scope of artistic expressions and disciplines. The inclusion of Raphael Fonseca and Yina Jiménez Suriel as curators marks a significant moment in the festival’s history, expanding its reach to include Latin American and Caribbean art influences. The curators were selected from an open call, reflecting the festival’s commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive artistic dialogues.
Fonseca and Jiménez Suriel’s curatorial approach will be guided by their extensive experience working with artists from the Global South, particularly Latin America and the Caribbean. The curators hope to introduce a new narrative to Iceland’s creative community, drawing connections between these regions and Iceland’s unique cultural and artistic heritage. This cross-pollination of cultures will not only shape the 2027 festival but will also help to redefine how Iceland is perceived within the global arts scene.
A Unique Intersection of Nordic and Global South Art
The festival’s curators bring a unique blend of expertise, with Fonseca currently serving as the head of the Department of Modern and Contemporary Latin American Art at the Denver Art Museum. His work with the Mercosul Biennial in Porto Alegre has positioned him as one of the leading curators in Latin American contemporary art. His collaboration with Jiménez Suriel, who has worked on the Porto Alegre show and is deeply immersed in the Latin American art scene, will result in an exhibition that reflects the richness and diversity of these regions.
Jiménez Suriel, born in the Dominican Republic, is a curator at Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary TBA21–Academy and an associate editor for Latin America and the Caribbean at Contemporary And (C&). Her focus on global South artists and her background in editorial work ensures a thoughtful and multifaceted approach to curating that will bring fresh perspectives to the festival. Together, the curatorial team promises to bring innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions that will resonate across diverse audiences and spark a new wave of international interest in Icelandic art and culture.
By merging the rich artistic traditions of Latin America and the Caribbean with Iceland’s unique and striking landscapes, the curators aim to create a platform for conversations about identity, culture, and the environment. These dialogues will undoubtedly enrich the Icelandic art scene and offer a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the fusion of Nordic and Latin American artistic visions.
The Role of Iceland’s Art Scene in Boosting Tourism
As Iceland continues to establish itself as a global leader in contemporary art, the Sequences festival plays a pivotal role in attracting visitors from around the world. The curatorial direction of Fonseca and Jiménez Suriel is likely to bring even more attention to Reykjavík, already known for its stunning natural beauty and thriving cultural life. This festival provides an ideal opportunity for both local residents and international tourists to experience cutting-edge art that bridges geographical and cultural divides.
Reykjavík’s position as a center for international art will only be strengthened by the global collaboration brought about by this biennial festival. Tourists flocking to Iceland for the festival will not only enjoy the art but will also have the chance to explore the vibrant capital city, renowned for its arts scene, as well as the surrounding natural wonders. From the iconic Blue Lagoon to the stunning Golden Circle, tourists can enjoy an immersive Icelandic experience that combines both modern creativity and the country’s famous natural landscapes.
The Sequences festival is expected to attract more global tourists, particularly art enthusiasts eager to explore the Icelandic cultural landscape. This will, in turn, boost the country’s tourism sector, as it adds another layer of allure to Iceland’s already diverse offerings. Whether travelers are looking to enjoy the arts, learn about Nordic traditions, or explore the country’s otherworldly landscapes, the festival provides a compelling reason to visit.
Iceland’s Growing Reputation as a Creative Hub
Iceland has long been an attractive destination for those interested in creative and cultural pursuits. The festival will showcase Iceland as a central point for artistic exchange and collaboration between the Global North and Global South. The inclusion of Fonseca and Jiménez Suriel highlights the importance of diversity and inclusivity in curatorial practice, and their work will amplify Iceland’s status as a global arts hub.
Reykjavík’s urban culture, combined with its natural beauty, has already made it a prominent destination for travelers seeking to combine artistic experiences with outdoor adventures. The city’s gallery and museum scene, including the Reykjavík Art Museum, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn, has played a key role in its rise as an art tourism hotspot. With the Sequences festival attracting more international attention, Iceland is on track to become an even more prominent destination for art-focused travelers.
The festival also aligns with the growing trend of sustainable tourism, with many art events around the world shifting toward environmentally conscious practices. Iceland, known for its commitment to sustainability, offers the perfect backdrop for such initiatives. The focus on environmental themes and the beauty of Iceland’s landscape will likely influence the festival’s programming, creating an even deeper connection between art, nature, and tourism.
Cultural Exchange and Its Broader Impact on Icelandic Travel
The partnership between the Sequences Festival and Latin American curators will create a meaningful opportunity for cultural exchange that benefits both the local community and international visitors. As the festival attracts more diverse audiences, the cultural dialogue created by the curatorial team will help to broaden perspectives on both sides of the Atlantic. This cultural exchange extends beyond the art world, contributing to Iceland’s broader tourism appeal by making it a destination for people interested in multicultural experiences.
Tourists visiting Iceland for the 2027 Sequences Festival will not only experience contemporary art but will also be introduced to the vibrant cultural diversity of the Caribbean and Latin America. This expanded international reach will encourage more visitors to experience the fusion of Iceland’s Nordic culture and the creative practices of the Global South, which will undoubtedly enrich the visitor experience.
Building Long-Term Cultural and Economic Benefits for Iceland
The influence of the Sequences festival extends far beyond the art world, as it has the potential to create long-term cultural and economic benefits for Iceland. The international exposure provided by the curatorial team will spark interest in Iceland’s arts and culture, attracting new visitors to the country. This cultural tourism phenomenon will also contribute to the local economy, as it generates revenue through accommodation, transportation, and local business activities.
Additionally, the partnership with Latin American curators introduces a new chapter of inclusivity in Icelandic art, encouraging a global dialogue that attracts international art enthusiasts, curators, and collectors. The influence of these curatorial practices could also encourage other international art festivals to partner with Iceland, further enhancing the country’s cultural stature and tourism appeal.
Conclusion: Sequences Festival 2027—A New Era for Art and Tourism in Iceland
The upcoming 2027 Sequences Festival promises to be a transformative event for both the Icelandic art scene and the country’s tourism industry. With Fonseca and Jiménez Suriel leading the charge, the festival is set to become a significant platform for global collaboration, bridging artistic traditions from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Iceland. This creative exchange will not only enrich the cultural fabric of Reykjavik but will also serve as a catalyst for increasing global interest in Iceland as a travel destination.
By blending art and tourism, the 2027 Sequences Festival is set to create lasting connections between diverse cultures, promote Iceland’s unique cultural identity, and foster economic growth through the tourism sector. As Reykjavik continues to attract international visitors with its diverse cultural offerings, the festival will stand as a testament to Iceland’s growing importance as a creative hub in the global arts scene.
