Σταθόπουλος Γιώργος

Impressions of Greek Engraving at Technopolis

The world of engraving can transport the viewer to uncharted places, reveal unspoken passions of the human soul, and seal the loves and obsessions of the artists themselves, leaving their own mark on art. Its comparative advantage over other forms of art is that it is not just a technical enhancement of typography but a fundamental means of spreading art to the wider public, capable of transmitting an aesthetic message. A representative sample of engraving art in Greece, from both past and contemporary creators, is being showcased at the Technopolis of the Municipality of Athens, in the “Purification Tanks” space. Curated by Orestis Stathopoulos and Ilias Kouvelis, the exhibition features a selection of works.

The event includes 150 engravings (woodcuts, etchings, lithographs, screen prints, and linocuts) from more than 50 Greek artists (engravers, painters, sculptors) of the 20th century. Art lovers can enjoy both representative and rare works from renowned creators who became teachers for the following generations of artists. Collectible compositions by internationally recognized creators (G. Spyropoulos, John Christoforou) as well as small personal art pieces (S. Papaloukas, G. Migadis) introduce us to the world of engraving.

The exhibition does not adhere to a specific style, school, or aesthetic criterion, but above all, it is a journey through the achievements of domestic engraving production. For the viewer less familiar with engraving, it bridges the past and present, as seen in works by contemporary artists.

Participants include: G. Kefallinos, D. Giannoukakis, H. Galtemis, P. Gravvalos, S. Karavouzis, A. Korogiannakis, A. Komianou, A. Fassianos, G. Stathopoulos, Michalis Arfaras, T. Mandzavinos, Th. Makris, S. Daskalakis, K. Papamichalopoulos, and St. Rokos.

By Giorgos Mylonas, December 2021