Athens, Greece – The B&E Goulandris Museum proudly presents “Catch Me”, a powerful exhibition by Greek-American artist Nicholas Kontaxis, running from March 18 to May 18, 2025. Kontaxis, known for his vibrant and textured abstract paintings, has defied significant physical and developmental challenges, including a seizure disorder, to become an internationally recognized artist.
This exhibition marks his highly anticipated debut in Greece, forging a meaningful connection between his ancestral heritage and his global artistic acclaim. The centerpiece of “Catch Me”—a trampoline reimagined as a canvas—serves as a poignant symbol of resilience, reflecting both the struggles and triumphs of his journey.
More than just an art exhibition, “Catch Me” is a groundbreaking initiative in accessibility. Developed in partnership with Nevronas, it features adapted guides, interactive programs, and a fully accessible environment to welcome all visitors. Additionally, Kontaxis collaborates with Leonteios School of Nea Smyrni to inspire young minds through creative workshops focused on perseverance and self-expression.
The exhibition opens with a special event on March 18, bringing together cultural leaders, policymakers, and art enthusiasts. With remarks from his mother, Krisann Kontaxis, “Catch Me” promises to be a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the transformative power of art.
Their lives were intricately linked to the sea, which shaped their identities and daily routines. Many women participated in fishing and trading, contributing to the local economy. The Kykladitisses were also pivotal in the spiritual life of their communities, partaking in festivals and rituals dedicated to deities like Aphrodite and Demeter, embodying the island’s rich mythology.
Artistic representations, such as the famous Cycladic figurines, often depict female forms, highlighting the significance of women in society. These figures are believed to represent fertility and the divine feminine, emphasizing the reverence for women in the Cycladic culture.
Despite the patriarchal norms of ancient Greece, Kykladitisses managed to carve out spaces for themselves, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Their stories, though not extensively documented, resonate with themes of empowerment, creativity, and the influence of geography on gender roles, revealing the complexities of women’s lives in the ancient Aegean world.
Peggy Zouboulaki has donated over 6,000 ancient Greek artifacts, dating from the Mycenaean to the Classical era, to the Greek state. Her collection includes Mycenaean larnakes, vases, figurines, and a rare painting of Saint Luke. Originally part of her family’s antiquities shop, the collection was legally recognized for sale, yet Zouboulaki chose preservation over profit. A ceremony at the Fethiye Mosque in Athens marked the first official handover, attended by Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou. Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni praised the donation, emphasizing the importance of returning historical treasures to their homeland for future generations.
On February 6, a high-level meeting led by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni focused on safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Cyclades following recent seismic activity. According to the Ministry of Culture, immediate precautionary actions were taken by archaeological authorities. At the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum, exhibits were relocated to lower shelves, and protective materials were placed to prevent damage. Special attention was given to fragile artifacts, including glass cases, pottery, and sculptures. A delegation, led by Secretary General Giorgos Didaskalos, inspected Santorini’s museums and archaeological sites, confirming no reported damage so far.
The Ministry of Culture has officially designated the Spathario Shadow Theatre Museum’s collection as a cultural monument, acknowledging its historical significance in documenting the evolution of Greek Shadow Theatre. The artifacts highlight the sociopolitical landscape of their time and honor the contributions of Eugenios Spatharis and his father, Sotiris Spatharis, to the iconic Karagiozis tradition. Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni praised Spatharis’ impact, emphasizing his role in modernizing Shadow Theatre while preserving its folk essence. Established in 1991, the museum safeguards over 465 figures and stage sets, ensuring the legacy of Greek Shadow Theatre for future generations.
