The 2011 Love Globe (Kaerleikskúlan), a special Christmas ornament, was presented at a celebratory ceremony at Reykjavík Art Museum on Tuesday. This year the artwork, entitled “Draw Your Own Map”, was designed by Yoko Ono. As usual, the sales profits will go to children with disabilities.
Yoko Ono presents her artwork to attendees.
Ono has a strong connection with Iceland and has visited the country annually since her outdoor artwork, Imagine Peace Tower, was established on Videy island off Reykjavík in 2007. According to a press release, she was honored when asked whether she would design the Love Globe this year.
As usual, the first ornament was presented to a person considered to be an outstanding role model; this year the recipient was Leifur Leifsson. The young man was born with disabilities but has not let that stand in the way of him fulfilling his dreams.
Ono with Leifur Leifsson and a young assistant. Photos courtesy of the Reykjavík Art Museum.
Leifsson was the first person to climb Mt. Esja in a wheelchair; he was assisted by his friends. This summer, however, he climbed Snaefellsjökull glacier in a specialized wheelchair, allowing him to use his own arm strength.
He had originally planned to climb Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest peak, but had to postpone the trip due to the volcanic eruption in Grímsvötn and climbed Saefellsjökull instead, mbl.is reports.
In 2004 Leifsson made a video in collaboration with the European Union on what people in wheelchairs are capable of.
This is the ninth time that the Love Globe is presented. Other artists who have participated in the project include Erró, Ólafur Elíasson, Rúrí and Gabríela Fridriksdóttir. The glass ornaments are handmade in Germany.
The Love Globe will be sold in a limited supply from October 12-26 and December 5-19 for ISK 4,500 (USD 39, EUR 28). Among sales outlets is Reykjavík Art Museum.
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