The opening of the World in Words exhibition in Reykjavik marks a momentous occasion for Iceland’s cultural heritage and for the international community’s appreciation of medieval manuscripts. Developed by the esteemed Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, this exhibition offers an immersive, innovative experience, celebrating Iceland’s treasured medieval texts, including its famous Sagas and profound references to Norse Mythology.
Housed in the newly constructed Edda building, a cultural hub that stands as a beacon for both academic and artistic exploration, the World in Words exhibition brings these ancient manuscripts into the public eye. The exhibition aims to present these invaluable texts in a way that allows visitors to explore their rich historical significance, offering a unique bridge between past and present. As Iceland’s latest museum attraction, it promises to provide both locals and international visitors with an educational and visually stunning journey into the heart of Icelandic culture.
Studio MB, the Edinburgh-based design studio behind the exhibition, has carefully crafted the space to ensure visitors experience a truly immersive encounter. Led by Design Director Mhairi Naismith, the project reflects the enormous responsibility that comes with showcasing a collection that spans centuries, from the 12th to the 19th century. These manuscripts, often called “Iceland’s Pyramids,” are considered to be a national treasure, with immense cultural and historical value.
The exhibition’s design transports visitors into the world of Iceland’s medieval past, offering a sensory experience that combines text, visual elements, and cutting-edge audiovisual technology. Naismith herself emphasized the importance of honouring the manuscripts’ historical integrity while creating a space that allows for reflection and admiration. The design team worked closely with curator Sigrún Kristjánsdóttir, who sought to make the exhibition accessible and engaging for people of all backgrounds, ensuring no prior knowledge of the texts is necessary to enjoy the experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the exhibition is its use of multimedia to animate the stories from these centuries-old manuscripts. Amy Milton, the exhibition’s content manager, reflects on how the stories of these manuscripts have permeated modern culture, from comic books to blockbuster movies, and yet still retain their original mystique. The exhibition offers visitors a chance to interact with these stories in their most authentic form, drawing on visual storytelling that showcases the vibrant and intricate details of the manuscripts.
Steven Dale, the graphic designer on the project, highlights the visual character of the manuscripts themselves, from ornate illuminations to quirky marginalia, all of which come alive in the exhibition’s design. The centrepiece is an immersive audiovisual projection that spans the exhibition’s back wall, where the stories and symbols from the manuscripts are vividly brought to life, offering a remarkable spectacle that connects the ancient and modern worlds.
For Studio MB, this project marks a pinnacle in their longstanding commitment to creating immersive exhibitions that tell stories in unique and thought-provoking ways. As the exhibition opens its doors, both to Iceland and the world, it represents a vital step in preserving and presenting these extraordinary works for generations to come. It’s an invitation to explore the depths of Icelandic history, mythology, and the written word.
For more information about the World in Words exhibition, and to learn more about Studio MB’s innovative design work, visit www.studiomb.co.uk or follow @studiombdesign on social media.
