In celebration of 75 years of friendship between Indonesia and Greece, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Athens, in collaboration with THEON INTERNATIONAL PLC (THEON), Athens School of Fine Arts (ASFA), and Indonesia Institute of Arts (IIA) Denpasar Bali, proudly presents the “Special Exhibition 75.” 

This extraordinary art exhibition will be held at the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation from October 1 to 3, 2024. It will showcase fine arts from ancient traditional to contemporary masterpieces by renowned artists from both nations, reflecting their deep cultural and historical bond.

A highlight of this celebration is to honour both nations arts and culture through the exchange of two symbolic artworks, including the presentation of these masterpieces and collaborative pieces as gifts between the Indonesian and Greek people, commemorating the enduring friendship and shared values between Indonesia and Greece. 

As part of this exchange, Indonesia will present Greece with a stunning 2.4-meter-high sculpture titled “RAMA – SINTHA,” skillfully crafted from olive wood by acclaimed Balinese artists I Made Nyoman Sumantra and I Made Nyoman Suparta from the IIA. 

Illustrated from Indonesian mythology, the sculpture symbolises friendship, devotion, and loyalty. The artwork will be gifted to the Greek people after this special exhibition as a lasting testament to the strong ties between the two nations.

In return, THEON will present a marble sculpture of the “Antikythera Mechanism” to Indonesia, honouring ancient Greek innovation. Created by George Kontonikolaou, this piece will be placed in a special location in Indonesia, symbolising the technological and cultural connection between Greece and Indonesia.

The exhibition will also feature works by young, talented Indonesian artist Naufal Abshar, celebrated for his contemporary approach, alongside Greek artists Caroline de Souza and Pavlina Bechrakis, known for their fusion of diverse artistic techniques and cultural influences. These artworks will also be presented as a gift, honouring the 75 years of friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations.

His excellency, Dr. Bebeb A.K. Nugraha Djunjunan, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the Hellenic Republic, remarked: “This exhibition celebrates the 75th years of warm relations between our two countries, fostering deeper cultural connections and paving the way for future collaboration. This exhibition not only celebrates our shared history as independent countries but also serves as a reminder of the power of cultural exchange in bringing nations closer together.”

The Founder and CEO of THEON INTERNATIONAL, Christian Hadjiminas, added: “Art, innovation, and technology unite us all; bringing people together and transcending borders and cultures. This heartfelt tribute honours the friendship between Indonesia and Greece. It inspires closer ties and sparks new pathways for creativity and cooperation. We are honoured to be part of such a meaningful exchange and look forward to the lasting connections it will foster.”

This joint initiative marks a milestone in the relationship between Indonesia and Greece, as reflected on the theme of the celebration, 75th Indonesia and Greece: Relationship and Beyond, and will also lay solid groundwork for continued relations through cultural and artistic exchange for a stronger foundation for future collaborations and strengthening the bond between the two nations and the countries.

Also read: THEON INTERNATIONAL’s MIKRON Night Vision Goggles make Netflix debut

The special exhibition opens its doors only from October 1-3 at 18:00 each evening, with free admission to the public.