STORES in Orfanidou Arcade, which sell coins, stamps, antiques, hats, clothing, jewelry, and sweets, will be transformed into art spaces from October 5 to October 12, 2024. The shop windows will display artworks, bringing together local shopkeepers and 22 Greek and international artists.

This concept was born from the walks and keen interest of Piyi Wong Poi-Ein, Panagiotis Voulgaris, and Dionisios Pappas in the arcades of Athens, particularly in the neglected and worn part of the city center that stretches from Klafthmonos Square to Omonοia. For many years, these arcades formed a vital network of corridors filled with economic activity, deeply embedded in the daily life of Athenians and visitors alike.

After presenting their idea to the arcade’s shopkeepers, the three artists invited other artists to visit, observe the individual shop windows, and collaborate with the owners. Each artist was inspired by the unique character of the stores and their products, proposing art installations accordingly. In this process, the shopkeepers shared their thoughts, concerns, and hopes for the revitalization of the area.

The exhibition offers an element of surprise for visitors, guiding them from one shop window to the next, revealing diverse artworks. Paintings, sculptures, textiles, photography, collages, and installations coexist with the products on display, creating a kaleidoscopic experience that unfolds throughout the arcade.

The group exhibition “Stoa 01” will be hosted for one week in Orfanidou Arcade, the timeless heart of Athens’ collectible coin and stamp market. Today, the arcade houses a variety of eclectic stores and remains the liveliest part of a network of neighboring arcades. It connects Stadiou Street, which is already showing signs of revival, with bustling Sofokleous Street, once the economic hub of the city.

Through this project, the three artists aim to focus on the arcade and its people, who keep it alive and active. They invite us, through contemporary art, to rediscover the charm, beauty, mystery, history, and practicality of Athens’ arcades. The collaboration between artists and shop owners highlights an effort to integrate art into everyday life, engaging passersby, arcade users, and neighboring buildings.

Concept and Exhibition Organization: Piyi Wong Poi-Ein, Panagiotis Voulgaris, Dionisios Pappas
Participating Artists: Blanka Amezkua, Natasa Antonov, Iakovos Volkov, Panagiotis Voulgaris, Mary Cox, Elli Embedokli, Iliana Theodoropoulou, Helen Kyrkilis, Loula Leventi, Angela Liosi, Alexandros Maganiotis, Dimitra Maltabe, Christina Mitrentse, Pandora Mouriki, Maria Bourbou, Vivi Papadimitriou, Dionisios Pappas, Sergios Pappas, Caroline Pradal, Ioanna Terlidou, Panos Tsonis, Piyi Wong Poi-Ein.

Under the Auspices of the City of Athens

• “Stoa 01” opens on Saturday, October 5, 2024, 11:00 – 14:00
  Duration: October 5 – 12, 2024. Monday to Saturday, during store hours.
  Venue: Orfanidou Arcade, 39 Stadiou St., Athens.
  Metro: Panepistimio – Omonοia

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