Iceland is a country of beauty and contrasts. Known for its dramatic landscapes and natural marvels, it has been an inspiration for artists for centuries. These 13 days for the workshop were specifically chosen because it is a time of great activity in Iceland. There are several music festivals and a huge gay parade the following Saturday. There are also many themes and events to be photographed in and around Reykjavik.

Mary Ellen Mark leads the workshop jointly with Icelandic artist Einar “Effi” Falur Ingólfsson.

In advance of the workshop you receive a long list of possible story ideas. Examples include: music festivals, fishermen, a summer camp for disabled children, gay parade, swimming pools in Reykjavik, workers in a geothermal plant, a fish factory and a magnesium factory, Blue Lagoon volcanic spa, Icelandic horses, and spectacular landscape locations that are among the most beautiful in the world.

The class will meet together for the first day’s group critique and the final critique on the last day—as well as for the evening sessions. Icelanders speak English and Danish widely, so there is no need for translators.