One of art’s many beauties is that it can take on a new meaning among shifting spaces and seasons. With shorter days and colder weather, winter invites us to reimagine our surroundings and create cozy atmospheres to enjoy. It’s also the perfect time to refresh your collection by adding artwork that complements the intimacy of the season.
Adam Biernat is an award-winning photographer, published in the top Icelandic magazines, who has been traveling around the country since 2014 to capture it’s serene beauty. From fjords to canyons, Biernat’s breathtaking landscape photography offers a glimpse into the vast, icy expanses of Northern Europe, capturing the raw beauty and serenity of its frigid terrains. With December fast approaching, we connected with Adam to delve into his photographic journey and uncover the stories behind his work.
Photographer Adam Biernat capturing an image of east Iceland
Iceland seems to hold a special place in your heart. What about the country captivates you the most, and how does it influence your photography?
Iceland is like no other place on Earth. Its rugged landscapes, ever-changing weather, and vast sense of solitude have a way of getting under your skin and transforming the way you see the world. What captivates me most is the stark contrasts — fiery volcanic terrains juxtaposed against serene, glacial blues. It’s a land of extremes that offers endless inspiration.
I’ve devoted a decade to capturing Iceland’s serene beauty, immersing myself deeply in its landscapes. I lived for seven months on a farm with the volcano Eyjafjallajökull as my backyard, spent a year and a half surrounded by the spectacular fjords in the East, and several months in the charming fishing town of Siglufjörður in the North. Each of these experiences shaped my perspective and brought me closer to understanding the soul of this incredible country.
When I photograph Iceland, I’m not just capturing its beauty. I’m trying to convey the emotions the landscapes evoke: the quietness of standing in an untouched valley, the power of a roaring waterfall, or the calmness of an isolated black church. These experiences influence my photography profoundly, allowing me to create artwork that resonates deeply with those who have shared similar moments or dreams of them.
Pictured: The Red Cabin of Fagridalur photographed by Adam Biernat
We’re headed into the winter season when we’ll spend more time inside and create comfortable spaces. If someone is looking to refresh their space for the winter season, what pieces would you recommend?
- The Red Cabin of Fagridalur: This photograph encapsulates the charm of isolation and warmth, with a bright red cabin surrounded by the icy whites of winter.
- Fishing Boat in Seyðisfjörður: A serene scene that celebrates simplicity and solitude, perfect for coastal or minimalist interiors.
- The Waterfall of Dettifoss: A celebration of nature’s raw power, beautifully framed by the soft tones of snow-covered terrain. Pure minimalism.
Fine art landscape photographer Adam Biernat at work in Iceland.
Can you share the story behind one of your favorite photographs and what made that moment special?
One of my all-time favorite works is The Black Church of Búðir. This photograph is simple yet deeply meditative, and it holds a special place in my heart — not just for its composition but for the moment it represents.
When I arrived at Búðir, the scene was moody and quiet. Low-hanging clouds wrapped around the mountains, echoing the horizontal stone fence that surrounds the church. The building itself stood like a guardian of solitude, its deep black walls creating a striking contrast against the muted landscape.
I framed the shot to show only one wall of the church, emphasizing its minimalism and symmetry. Most of the photograph is dominated by the pale-gray sky, offering a sense of vastness and space for thought. As I was capturing the scene, the door to the church suddenly opened — a brief, almost cinematic moment that felt like an invitation to pause and reflect.
Many customers who purchase this piece share that it brings peace and calm to their homes and lives. It’s a reminder of stillness in a busy world, and I couldn’t be happier that it resonates with so many people.
Adam Biernat featured with his work, The Black Church of Búðir.
How do you approach selecting frames for your shop?
Framing is a crucial part of my process, and I believe a good frame should complement the artwork without overpowering it. That’s why I favor clean, minimalist designs that let the photograph shine.
Quality is non-negotiable for me. All the frames I use are crafted from real wood, with no imitations or veneers, ensuring they’ll last for decades. The attention to detail is equally important — everything from the custom spacers to prevent the print from touching the acrylic glass to mounting the artwork perfectly flat, matters.
I trust Simply Framed with this process because their craftsmanship aligns with my vision. Their commitment to excellence ensures that my artwork is displayed beautifully and safely in every home
The Waterfall of Dettifoss by Adam Biernat featured in Black Label Natural Maple with walnut spline corners.
What’s next for Adam Biernat Studio? Are there new projects, locations, or themes you're excited to explore?
Next year, I’m embarking on an exciting new journey: exploring Greenland. It’s a place I’ve never been but have always dreamed of photographing. The vast, untouched landscapes and unique light conditions will undoubtedly inspire new work.
In addition, I’m beginning to photograph with a 4" × 5" film view camera. The process of shooting with such a camera is slow, deliberate, and meditative, perfectly aligning with my artistic style. I’m thrilled to see how this approach will influence my work and add a new dimension to my photography.
For now, I’m focused on creating pieces that resonate with people, helping them bring the beauty and calm of remote, untouched landscapes into their homes.
Read more about Adam Biernat's work and view his full collection of Icelandic fine art photography.
