WHO: My name is Gianni Kazakis, and I am an interdisciplinary artist. My artistic practice is primarily focused on exploring color psychology, as I try to translate the power of colour into various media.
WHAT: This space holds a special place in my heart, as it was the site of my first exhibition in Athens and Greece more broadly. Over time, it has become an important workspace for me, a place to meet new artists, and a hub for artistic socialization. The Keramikou building has been a crucial part of my artistic journey in the city.
HOW: I have faced significant challenges in navigating the art scene in Athens, with the primary obstacle being the high cost of rent. Rent often consumes 80-90% of an artist's income, making it extremely difficult to also afford art supplies, studio space, and other necessary expenses. Compared to other European cities, the costs of being an artist in Athens are prohibitively high.
WHERE: Despite these financial hurdles, I have actually found the art scene in Athens to be quite welcoming and open. It has been relatively easy for me to connect with other artists, collaborate, and become integrated into the local creative community. The Keramikou building, in particular, has served as an important hub for these artistic interactions and exchanges.
WHY: However, the lack of robust funding opportunities, nonprofit organizations, and institutional support for artists in Athens is a significant issue. As an artist, it is incredibly hard to survive and thrive in this environment without access to these vital resources and forms of assistance. More needs to be done, whether through government initiatives or private sector support, to ensure that artists in Athens can sustainably pursue their creative passions.
Overall, while the Athenian art scene has been welcoming to me personally, the fundamental challenge of being able to afford to live and work as an artist in the city remains a persistent obstacle. Greater investment and support structures are necessary to truly cultivate a thriving, sustainable artistic community in Athens.
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