Biennale of Santorini

The idea for a meeting of artists from around the world in Santorini was born in 2001, when he first began to carefully observe the richness of this dramatic island.

«The relation between the tradition and how it gets involved into our modern “aesthetics machine”, the local social psychology, the dramatic beauty of the island and the local economy can indicate us how to open new ways of living a

nd thinking. History, myth, architecture, the island’s traditions, the original significance of folk art, the customs and colours prove the island is positively animated by its people and their relationship to time and place. These factors, intertwined, give rise to a whole set of ideas – a ‘cabinet of thoughts’ if you like. Like Pandora’s box from the era of myth and legend, it consumes my imagination. An exhibition of the multi-disciplinary arts might embody and contain a set of cultural messages that could positively influence all of our futures – presenting something new and immeasurably exciting/» says Biennale founder Kyriakos Papadopoulos. Santorini Biennale mission is to promote both emerging and established artists that are working on the borders between different art disciples, allowing them to surpass the traditional (and perhaps limiting) concepts of classicism, modernism, contemporary and applied arts. The Santorini Biennale will be dedicated to hosting artist-led events presented in full co-operation with the organisers. The Santorini Biennale is inspired by the ways in which ideas are born and disseminated – how they then develop and diversify within our increasingly interconnected global society. Art and culture continue to play a distinctive role in defining and re-examining the past, understand the present and imagine the future direction of human endeavour. In recognition of this, the Santorini Biennale wishes to cultivate a spirit of research and experimentation; also, to present an environment ideal for open and continuous dialogue. Pursuing a programme of cultural collaboration that is at the same time both regional and international, Santorini Biennale intends to support and promote the free exchange of both artistic and cultural experience. Reflecting the strengths of co-operation across all borders, encouraging and rewarding excellence, Santorini Biennale will work to advance a broad framework of activities enabling participants to initiate a wider dialogue for new ideas and social change. Ideally, by our art, we can provoke and motivate humanity to take action on today’s fundamental issues.