On Saturday, 22 May 2004 the Apothiki Art Centre opened its doors...

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On May 22, the Apothiki Art Centre opened its doors and started its 2004 exhibitions and activities. Among the more than 250 people present for the official opening were many artists living and working in Paros, representatives of numerous cultural organisations and art schools as well as visitors and friends of the Apothiki coming from more than 20 countries. Many of them travelled especially to Paros for this occasion. The Art centre was officially opened by the Mayor of Paros, Mr Ragoussis and the Ambassador of Belgium to Greece, Mr Rijmenans. Poems of the late Paros Poet, Yiannis Kaparos were brought by Stellios Ghikas, Stellios Kalamaras, Aphrodite, and Jeffrey Carsson. The Archillogos Chorus, led by Nikos Sarris, brought works of Mikis Theodorakis. The initiators of the gallery, Hilde Van Lindt and Dirk Drijbooms, stressed their appreciation for the support they have received during the 3 year long building and restoration works, coordinated by Mr Ilias Hondroleos. They also repeated that the aim of the centre is to be a meeting place for artists and cultural organisations from all corners of the globe and that its activities should contribute to make Paros a cultural meeting place. A residence programme and a series of Art Table sessions should contribute to lively debates and exchanges. Modern equipement and webcam technology will enable the Apothiki to host professional conferences and cultural events for up to 120 people. The Mayor warmly welcomed the initiative and stressed his desire to increase the cultural profile of the island. The opening session was also the occasion to present the works of the first artists on show namely Eleonora Stol form the Netherlands (paintings) and Juan Jose Islas (photography) from Mexico. A spontaneous breathtaking solo song by Esmeralda led the way to a reception in gallery, its roof garden and the surrounding streets in the historical heart of Paros. Local ‘delights’….with wines from Paros and delicacies offered by the local Bakery of Mr Nikos Ragoussis did the rest...

Please refer to the Practical Information Sheet for details on how to come and where to stay.