Imaginary art

The Island of Videy, a seven-minute boat ride from Iceland's capital, is turning into Reykjavik's summer playground.
  
  

Yoko Ono
Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower will be unveiled on the island of Videy in September. Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty

Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower, a monument to the life of John Lennon, will be unveiled on the island of Videy, just off Reykjavik, in September. The lyrics of Lennon's song Imagine are due to be engraved on it next year. The installation will join American sculptor Richard Serra's work Milestones, made from columns of basalt, and Blind Pavilion by Olafur Eliasson, comprising 200 panes of dark glass. The island, a seven-minute boat ride from the capital, is turning into Reykjavik's summer playground. You can try your hand at blokarting (go-carting with a sail) and mountain kick biking (a scooter with modified large wheels) on the island's rugged terrain or, if you fancy something more sedate, there are hiking trails and free bike loan including toddler seats. Videy is also home to Iceland's oldest church and its first stone building (now a restaurant and art gallery), which was not constructed until the middle of the 17th century. Reykjavik Whale Watching (00354 555 3565, elding.is) run trips to Videy.

 

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