Reykjavík UNESCO City of Literature, in conjunction with the Reykjavík City Library, will host two literary events during Reykjavík Gay Pride 2012. An exhibition of drawings by author Kristín Ómarsdóttir will open in Reykjavík City Library and a Queer Literary Walk in English in downtown Reykjavík will be among the events featured this year.

Marilyn and Greta – Drawings by Kristín Ómarsdóttir

The Reykjavik City Library and Reykjavik UNESCO City of Literature jointly present an exhibition of drawings by author and artist Kristín Ómarsdóttir from her recent fictional book about two Hollywood legends, Marilyn Monroe and Greta Garbo. Kristín’s fascination with the two stars led her to first draw them and then write about them, which in turn inspired more drawings. Now those drawings are presented to the public. The exhibition opened in Reykjavik City Library on 7 August, and will continue throughout the month.

Queer literary walk

The Queer Literary Walk has been a popular staple of the Reykjavík Gay Pride Festival for years. This year literary scholar Úlfhildur Dagsdóttir will lead guests on a trek through Reykjavík’s most interesting nooks and crannies, recalling literature both old and new – ancient lullabies, the cries of doomed lovers, and memories of endless nights. She is accompanied by actor Darren Foreman who will read excerpts from literature old and new. The Galician writer Elías Portela (Elías Knörr) who lives in Reykjavík, will also take part in the walk.

The walk starts at Ingólfstorg square (by the Tourist Information Centre in Adalstraeti), Friday 10 August at 5 p.m. It lasts for about an hour and is free of charge.