I am an independent scholar specializing in the history of animals in Iceland. My path as a historian began with exploring the overlooked narratives of marginalized women in Iceland through oral history. This initial focus on voices that had been silenced in Icelandic history and society eventually led me to discover another critical yet neglected field: Icelandic animal history. Understanding that nature and its non-human living beings are voiceless underscores the vital need to give them a voice through historical narratives. In my studies, I specifically concentrated on Iceland’s marine and freshwater fauna. The aquatic wildlife is particularly concealed from plain sight, as is its historical context, making it imperative to investigate. In light of the environmental challenges currently confronting Iceland’s aquatic ecosystems, it is vital to comprehend the historical backdrop of marine and freshwater species that are crucial to Iceland’s natural heritage and biodiversity.
My studies examine the interactions between different species, the challenges we face in conservation, and the impact of human activities on Iceland’s unique aquatic wildlife. My goal is to incorporate the voices and visual presence of non-human life into our historical narratives. Thus, in my projects, I utilize film and photography to narrate visual stories that explore the aquatic world. Additionally, I gather personal experiences through oral histories to showcase the deep connections between humans and nature. Ultimately, my aim as a researcher and conservationist is to strengthen the historical bond between the Icelandic nation and its aquatic wildlife through research and education. My organization, Icelandic Aquatic Animals [Vatnaverur Íslands], supports this endeavor, focusing on conservation and education.
