VOINews, Jakarta: The Indonesian Embassy in Athens has taken the lead in celebrating 75 years of deep-rooted cultural ties between Indonesia and Greece, showcasing an inspiring collaboration between artists from both countries. The exhibition, hosted at the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation, reflects the power of art, innovation, and technology, bringing together artists to highlight the enduring relationship between the two nations. Organized by the Indonesian Embassy in collaboration with THEON INTERNATIONAL PLC, Athens School of Fine Arts (ASFA), and Indonesia’s Institute of the Arts in Denpasar (ISI), the event aims to strengthen bonds through cross-disciplinary artistic partnerships.
In a press release, the Indonesian Embassy in Athens expressed hopes that this collaboration would deepen ties between the people of Indonesia and Greece and inspire future artistic and cultural exchanges. “We hope this partnership continues to inspire further cultural exchange and cooperation,” said a representative from the embassy. The statement emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering stronger connections between nations.
One of the exhibition’s standout pieces is the marble sculpture “Antikythera Mechanism,” crafted by Greek artist George Kontonikolaou. He described the artwork as a tribute to ancient Greek knowledge and a representation of Greece's artistic and cultural heritage. “This work symbolizes our 75 years of friendship and serves as a foundation for continued cultural exchanges in the future,” he noted.
The exhibition’s diverse array of artworks includes olive wood sculptures by Balinese artists I Made Sumantra and I Made Suparta, along with collaborative paintings by Indonesian artist Naufal Abshar and Greek artists Caroline de Souza and Pavlina Bechrakis. The fusion of artistic traditions from both nations highlights the event’s theme of collaboration across cultures and disciplines, showcasing the lasting impact of Indonesian-Greek relations.
Christian Hadjiminas, CEO of THEON INTERNATIONAL PLC, emphasized the significance of this exhibition, reflecting on the long-standing relationship between Indonesia and Greece. He noted how the event honors the past while looking toward the future of bilateral relations, specifically focusing on technological and economic partnerships. “This achievement marks an important milestone as we continue to strengthen ties between our countries, both culturally and technologically,” Hadjiminas remarked.
Indonesian Ambassador to Greece, Dr. Bebeb A.K. Nugraha Djundjunan, highlighted the exhibition as a celebration not only of political and economic relations but also of the cultural connections that have flourished over decades. He proudly stated, “This collaboration is a symbol of the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Greece since 1949, and it represents Indonesia’s gratitude for Greece’s support during our struggle for independence in 1945.”
The Balinese artists shared their experiences of working under tight deadlines to complete their olive wood sculpture “RAMA SINTHA,” which symbolizes resilience and immortality. They also reflected on the geopolitical significance of Indonesia’s growing influence in technology and the success of THEON’s collaboration with Indonesian industries in producing night vision systems. “Art and technology can transcend borders, fostering better understanding and cooperation,” added Hadjiminas.
The exhibition also provided a unique learning opportunity for ASFA students, who were able to observe the Balinese artists at work. ASFA’s Vice-Rector Ioannis Melanitis highlighted the students’ appreciation of the intuitive approach employed by the Indonesian artists, who drew inspiration from their personal experiences throughout the creative process. “The students were deeply impressed by the artists’ intuitive methods, developed through their journey in art-making,” Melanitis explained.
This cross-cultural exhibition serves as a testament to the lasting relationship between Indonesia and Greece, built on shared values of creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Through art, the two nations continue to deepen their connections, paving the way for future cultural and technological exchanges./ANTARA/VOI
