The Artists’ Salary (2018)

Three artists, black sheep of the modern era, bohemians who scandalized and captivated, foresaw that fame would find them some day. Plagued by misfortune, their public and private lives were full of drama – but with pen and paintbrush, they sought refuge from the fray. Author Olafur Gunnarsson was a good friend of these controversial geniuses, Alfred Floki, Dagur Sigurdarson and Steinar Sigurjonsson who lived their lives on the fringes of society. Here, he leads the reader on a tour around Reykjavik and Copenhagen of the 70s and 80s and describes, with deep understanding, honesty, and unparalleled humor, his encounters with these three and with many other unforgettable characters from that era: cultural leaders, country folk, world-famous writers, furniture salesmen, bartenders, suspected KGB agents, mistresses, poets, and artists.

“It’s a true art to compile a commemorative work, especially one so gripping and memorable, so sparkling with humor and steeped in sorrow. BOTTOM LINE: Full of tragic humor, this is a wonderfully styled and informative read about men who truly left their mark on Icelandic culture.” Olina Kjerulf Thorvardardottir, Frettabladid daily