This series of Björk Haraldsdóttir's works are conceived as groupings of complementary shapes, patterns and tones. Working in sets reveals a new dynamic; a conversation between pieces with individual personalities allows a rhythmic interplay to develop. This is a direction the artist is finding increasingly intriguing to travel down.


The sets also explore new tonal directions. Single colour vessels with pattern revealed only by the juxtaposition of slip clay and stoneware clay appear quite serene. Solid whites and solid blacks flatten the aesthetic and allow scribed patterns to characterise the pieces in way that is very different from their ‘sister’ pieces patterned with contrasting tones. These works are an evolution but hold a strong memory of their multi-tone antecedents.

Álfadans Series 2 are inspired by Icelandic folklore and mythological tales. Huldufólk (hidden folk) are supernatural beings referred to as Álfar or Elves, although they are nothing like the image the word elf might conjure in Britain. Álfar are tall, strong and handsome people of another world, who sometimes appear at midnight and especially on New Years Eve. They are often feared by humans and disappearances of people and animals were commonly blamed on Álfar. The garments worn by Álfar were believed to be elaborate and the females, Álfkona, were believed to wear long dresses adorned with rich pattern. They would host dances on New Years Eve and if a human was exposed to them they would be invited to dance, but were seldom seen again in this world after taking part in Álfadans. This second series of Álfadans features a small amount of Icelandic Lava at the top of each vessel bound on using linen string.