New ritual society
After a long period of crisis and continuous pause, it was as if time stood still. However, now it's time to imagine the new identity of Athens. While this fluid condition was experienced collectively, each one of us had a different understanding of the situation. Now that it looks as if it is over, we are all requested to answer the same question; what will the "next day" be like?
Opinions are divided upon this question. Some argue that in the future the identity of Athens and most of the cultural activities will exist in the digital world. There is already a rush for digitalization that pushes culture to move online. This transition may not be ideal, since the virtual presentation of artistic activities cannot be compared with a live exhibition. Moreover, viewing an artwork in person is a more interactive experience as you can have a holistic approach in comparison to the digital one.
Undoubtedly, there are some who claim that this pause gave us the opportunity to explore time differently, giving space to traditional forms of engagement. This kind of activities seem to eliminate space and time by creating their own spacetime. In Greece, there are traditions that are strongly linked to culture, such as loom, textiles, ceramics, basket weaving, etc. These traditions seem to have been developed as a means of personal expression in times of crisis, as well as a way of meditation. These activities are a form of relaxation and creativity, while maintaining a link with the past and traditions. Nevertheless, if these activities continue to grow it seems that it will be a further interaction between art and the digital world.
Thus, the following question arises; while everything seems to be moving towards a digital future, how can we retain craftsmanship processes on a global scale? Which will be the new techniques that will contribute to the creation of the new identity of Athens?
Curated by: Katerina Nikolaou
Artists: Maria Varela, Eirini Vlavianou, Myrto Vratsanou, Yiannis Vogdanis, George Petsikopoulos, Lily Hassioti, Alexia Psaradeli
Back to Athens 7, 2020
μetaΑθήνα / pόστΑθενς
Overcoming crises, Athens on the verge of its new identity
Mezzanine
48-50 Aiolou str., 105 60 Athens
Opening day: Wednesday, July 1, 16:00 - 22:00
Visiting hours: Thursday 2.7, Friday 3.7, 16:00 – 21:00, Saturday 4.7, 12:00 – 21:00
