Aðalbjörg, known as Abba, graduated from the University of Iceland with a degree in biology in 1979. She then studied fine art at the Icelandic Academy of the Arts from 1981 to 1983. Her studies continued at Konstskolan Hälsingborg between 1984 – 1986, and she graduated from the Icelandic Academy of the Arts in 1988 with a degree in graphic design. In addition, Abba has attended many shorter art courses.

Since 1988, Abba has worked in design, illustration and in advertising both in Iceland and abroad. She has sat on the board of the Association of Icelandic graphic artists as well as taking an active role in committee work.

Abba has held seven solo exhibitions and in addition she has taken part in many group exhibitions.