elc team
FokiaNou Art Space’s annual exhibition captures the coexistence of old and new in Athens through the works of 18 artists who explore the changes, contrasts and constant evolution of the city
FokiaNou Art Space hosts the annual exhibition on Athens, following an open call for submissions. Athens Old and New, which opens on Saturday 22 February, brings together 18 artists who capture the timeless evolution of Athens through the collision and coexistence of the old and the new. Their works explore both the city’s historical memory, its iconic buildings, nature and ancient monuments, as well as contemporary urban transformations in an environment that is rapidly changing due to the current construction boom and overtourism.
Neighbourhoods are being transformed as the phenomenon of short-term rentals and real estate investment displaces permanent residents, while new architectural ensembles emerge, sometimes without respect for cultural heritage. Using a variety of visual media, the artists in the exhibition “Athens Old and New” record these changes, creating works that highlight the contrasts and harmonious coexistences that characterise Athens, expressing nostalgia for what is being lost, while at the same time expressing their anxiety for the future of the city. The exhibition records the specific time frame, contributes to a creative dialogue and encourages the public to reflect on their relationship with the city and its constant transformation.
The exhibition is organized and curated by Panagiotis Voulgaris and Mary Cox. Participating artists are: Maria Bourbou, Panayiotis Ferentinos, Maria Gavriel, Aristides Theodorou, Spyros Kaberis, Dora Konsta, Vani Koronaki, Maria Claudia Litsas, Despina Pantazi, Eleni Papanikolaou, Geeta Roopnarine, Vicky Samouilidou, Efi Seitanidou, Stella Sevastopoulos, Vassiliki Spyrou, Marianne Wie, Kyveli Zachariou.
About FokiaNou Art Space
FokiaNou Art Space is a dynamic artistic nucleus that promotes collaboration between Greek and foreign artists and actively contributes to the local art scene. In 2024, it celebrated ten years of creative presence, marking a decade of exhibitions, actions and collaborations. Since 2016, under the curatorship of visual artists Panagiotis Voulgaris and Mary Cox, it has hosted more than 70 group, interdisciplinary and solo exhibitions, as well as creative workshops and talks, maintaining its role as a vibrant and open field of artistic expression.
