Successfully surpassed fundraising goal by ISK 5.2 million
In a remarkable feat of endurance and fundraising, Kristján Atli Sævarsson has completed a 600-kilometer trek around the Westfjords, a journey that marks the completion of a loop started by Reynir Pétur Steinunnarson 40 years ago.
The Westfjords trek, known for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain, saw Kristján Atli hiking through some of Iceland's most scenic landscapes. His mother accompanied him by car during this 14-day journey, providing support and encouragement.
The primary purpose of Kristján Atli's trek was to raise funds for a new pottery kiln. His fundraising campaign, which aimed to raise 3.7 million ISK, surpassed expectations and raised a total of 5.2 million ISK. This excess will undoubtedly be beneficial for his pottery studio at Sołheimar, where he creates his renowned "Doppa" ptarmigan sculptures.
Kristján Atli met Reynir Pétur Steinunnarson in the summer of 2013. Inspired by Reynir's 1985 walk around Iceland's Ring Road, but missing the Westfjords, Kristján Atli's mother suggested he walk around the Westfjords to complete the loop. Reynir Pétur, in recognition of Kristján Atli's achievement, presented him with a DVD about his 1985 walk, excluding the Westfjords segment.
With the new pottery kiln now within reach, Kristján Atli is looking forward to returning to his studio after the summer to continue creating his unique handcrafted sculptures. His journey through the Westfjords has not only been a testament to his physical endurance but also a symbol of the completion of a long-standing endeavour started by Reynir Pétur Steinunnarson.
Kristján Atli Sævarsson's journey through the Westfjords, extending beyond fundraising for a new pottery kiln, also signifies a connection with nature, given his hiking experiences in the home-and-garden setting of Iceland's landscapes. After returning to his Sołheimar studio post-trek, he will resume his lifestyle of creating intricate "Doppa" ptarmigan sculptures from his unique handcrafted pottery.
