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The installation Chromo Sapiens is a landscape of hair created from synthetic hair extensions, which is the artist Shoplifter’s signature medium. You enter three caves, the first one is called Primal Opus; inspired by earthy hues, blacks and browns lined the walls with flashes of neon colored hair bringing it alive. The second and biggest chamber, Astral Gloria, is an explosion of brightly colored hair hanging from disorientating heights and dramatically illuminated by lights. Different recordings of sounds are played from various hidden speakers, creating a soundscape that is as all-encompassing as the landscape. Last is the third chamber Opium Natura, where shades of white and pastels created a celestial cloud cave. Guests are encouraged to touch the installation and dwell in it, enjoying the colors and sounds which can be described as a sort of color therapy and open eyed meditation.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Hofuostooin - Chromo Sapiens / Cafe
Enjoy the large - scale, multi - sensory and immersive installation Chromo Sapiens by Icelandic artist Hrafnhildur Arnardóttir also known under the artist name Shoplifter. The installation consists of three caves made from Shoplifter’s signature material, synthetic hair extensions. The installation surrounds the viewer's horizon with soundscapes from the Icelandic band HAM in each cave. Entering the installation as homo sapiens, you are invited to explore your inner landscape through the stimulation of the senses, where you are the destination of the journey, and when exiting you have transformed into Chromo Sapiens. Höfuðstöðin where the installation is permanently located, also features a gift shop and café & bar with outdoor seating.
All Fees and Taxes
Soda/Pop
Coffee and/or Tea
Official Guide
Lunch
Alcoholic Beverages
Hofuostooin - Chromo Sapiens / Cafe
Rafstoovarvegur 1a Reykjavik Iceland
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Curiosity06114569987,,Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Everything about Höfuðstöðin was a delight. Fantastic, fun, otherworldly… it’s lesser known but deserves to be on the map! I was recommended it by some locals and it was a gorgeous experience. Come to the colorful belly of the beast!! 🩷🩷


X8832SWjokev,,Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great experience with an amazing back story. Recommended!!! (And you can make Instagrammable pictures here!)

TerezitaA2,,Aug 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is an magical place that not every tourist will visit but its worthy! i came half hour before closing so i didnt have enough time, but i would probably spend there much more time if i could. Luckily there was nobody else just me so i really enjoy it. you can just sit there, listen music and watch all the beautiful colours everywhere 💜 I will recommend this to all my clients comming to reykjavik, its really magical place. There is also nice cafeteria with outdoor sitting so when weather is nice you cand spend there all day 🤩



Operated by Hofuostooin