ODEE
Concept and Performance Artist
ODEE (Oddur Eysteinn Friðriksson) is an Icelandic artist renowned for pushing the boundaries of contemporary art through his innovative and provocative conceptual and performative pieces. Born and raised in Iceland, ODEE has always been driven by a deep curiosity about the intersection of art, society, and power structures. His work often explores themes of corporate malfeasance, social justice, and the role of media in shaping public perception.
A graduate of The Iceland University of the Arts, ODEE is currently pursuing his MA in Fine Arts at the University of Bergen – KMD. Throughout his artistic journey, he has remained committed to using art as a powerful tool to critique and challenge the status quo, bringing vital conversations into the public domain.
Two of ODEE’s most notable works are We’re Sorry and MOM air.
We’re Sorry is a conceptual piece that boldly addresses corporate wrongdoing by the Icelandic fishing company Samherji. Inspired by the “Fishrot” scandal, the artwork replicated the Samherji website with a bold apology prominently displayed. This piece extended into a public mural at the Reykjavík Art Museum, amplifying its impact and sparking a high-profile legal battle that has garnered international attention.
MOM air is another groundbreaking project that further solidified ODEE’s reputation as a fearless and innovative artist. This conceptual and performative piece parodied the collapse of WOW air, reimagining it as MOM air, a fictional low-cost airline. The project captivated a global audience, reaching over 1 billion viewers and landing on the front page of CNN twice. Through *MOM air*, ODEE explored themes of consumerism, corporate identity, and the thin line between reality and fiction in today’s media-driven world.
ODEE’s ability to blend art with activism has brought contemporary art into the public spotlight, engaging a broader audience and forcing meaningful conversations about the role of art in society. His work has not only captivated the art world but has also reached people who typically overlook fine art, inspiring them to engage in dialogues about its significance and impact.
With a career that has seen his work reach over a billion viewers worldwide and featured prominently in international media, ODEE continues to challenge conventions and expand the reach of contemporary art. His work stands as a testament to the power of art as a force for change, sparking both dialogue and action in the face of global issues.
Contact
tel: +47 403 18030
E : odee@odee.is
Other notable projects
In addition to his more widely recognized works, ODEE has been involved in a variety of artistic and charitable projects that showcase his versatility and commitment to using art as a means of connection and support.
ODEE collaborated with the Icelandic Dance Company, creating art that was prominently featured on posters and other promotional materials, helping to visually define the company’s public image and enhance audience engagement. His creative vision also extended to commercial projects, such as designing a beer can for WOW air, which reflected the airline’s vibrant and youthful brand identity. Another notable collaboration was with the Icelandic candy company Nói Síríus, where ODEE reimagined the packaging for Opal, one of Iceland’s most iconic candies.
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Beyond his artistic endeavors, ODEE is deeply committed to philanthropy. He has raised money and awareness for several charitable organizations, including Einstök börn (Unique Children), a support group for children with rare diseases in Iceland, and Bergið Headspace, a support center dedicated to helping young people aged 12-25. Through these efforts and other charitable initiatives, ODEE uses his platform to give back to the community, leveraging his art to make a positive impact on those in need.
Media Coverage
Exhibitions
2018 – Circulum – Gallerí Fold, Reykjavík – Einkasýning
2018 – Odee Street Drop á Menningarnótt – Gallerí Fold, Reykjavík – Gjörningur
2018 – Time Lapse – Eistnaflug, Neskaupsstað – Einkasýning
2018 – Wow Beer – The Annual Icelandic Beer Festival, Kex Hostel, Reykjavík – Gjörningur
2017 – Cash Mönneh – Sómasetrið, Reyðarfirði – Einkasýning
2017 – Álverk – Alcoa Fjarðaál, Reyðarfirði – Einkasýning
2017 – Cash Mönneh – Deiglan, Alcoa Fjarðaál, Reyðarfirði – Einkasýning
2017 – Brandalism – Amarohús, Akureyri – Einkasýning
2017 – Popart Tvíeyringur – Einarshús, Safnahús Vestmannaeyja – Samsýning
2017 – Landvættir – Berlín, Þýskaland – Einkasýning
2016 – Norse – Egilsstaðaflugvöllur – Einkasýning
2016 – PopArt – Smáralind – Samsýning
2016 – Cash Mönneh – Ljósanótt, Reykjanesbæ – Einkasýning
2016 – Ormsteiti – Sláturhúsið, Egilsstöðum – Samsýning
2016 – Odee Street Drop á Menningarnótt – Gallerí Fold, Reykjavík – Gjörningur
2016 – LungA – Seyðisfirði – Samsýning
2016 – Pop Up Art Festival – Berlín, Þýskaland – Samsýning
2016 – Þríhöfði – Sláturhúsið, Egilsstöðum – Samsýning
2015 – Landvættir – Gallerí Fold, Reykjavík – Einkasýning
2015 – Popart 2015 – Gallerí Firði, Hafnarfirði – Samsýning
2015 – Samruni – Dahlshús, Eskifirði – Einkasýning
2014 – GGG: Gremlins, Goonies & Ghostbusters – Bíó Paradís, Reykjavík – Samsýning
2014 – Án titils – Deiglan, Alcoa Fjarðaál, Reyðafirði – Einkasýning
2014 – Odee á Ljósanótt, Svarta Pakkhúsinu, Reykjanesbæ – Einkasýning
