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The Iceland Writers Retreat is a one-week international event for writers that takes place in Reykjavik, Iceland.
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History
The Iceland Writers Retreat (IWR) was founded in 2014 by Eliza Reid, who is currently the First Lady of Iceland, and Erica Jacobs Green, of the United States. It has been held annually since 2014 in Reykjavik, Iceland. Iceland is known for its literary tradition, and Reykjavik is the world’s first non-native English speaking UNESCO City of Literature. The Iceland Writers Retreat was named one of the world's best writers' retreats in The Sydney Morning Herald. Spring 2016 marked the third annual Iceland Writers Retreat, taking place 13–17 April 2016. The fourth event will be hosted from 5–9 April 2017.
Schedule
The retreat is an international gathering, bringing together authors from many different countries. The Retreat consists of several small-group writing workshops led by acclaimed authors from around the world. There are opportunities to explore Iceland between workshops, which introduce participants to Iceland's rich literary tradition and beautiful landscapes. The Retreat includes Q & A Panels with all faculty, and social events to allow participants to network with an international group of writers.
Funding
The retreat's founding sponsor is Icelandair. It is also supported by the Icelandic Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, Reykjavik UNESCO City of Literature, the City of Reykjavik, the US Embassy in Iceland, and the Icelandic Literature Center.
Featured Authors
Icelandic authors who have participated in the IWR through presentations and readings include: Einar Kárason, Ari Trausti Guðmundsson, Ragna Sigurðardóttir, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, Jónína Leósdóttir, Andri Snær Magnason, Gerður Kristný, Hallgrímur Helgason, and Sigurlín Bjarney Gísladóttir.