‘Ode to Freedom’ was opened on Tuesday by the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis, in the presence of a number of local Greeks and Presidents of Greek community organisations.
Born in Achaia, Greece; Konstantinopoulou’s parents migrated to Sydney in 1960 when she was just two years old.
Having originally studied fashion design in order to work in the family business, the world of art had always drawn the creative.
‘Ode to Freedom’ showcases a number of original paintings intended to inspire learning about Hellenic history and heritage.
It pays particular homage to the strong connection Hellenism shares with NSW’s Macarthur region, where Greeks first appeared on the continent according to official records; a group of seven sailors convicted of piracy and sent to the then colony to serve out their detention.
‘Ode to Freedom’ pays respect to the contribution of the Anzacs, and their fight against the Nazi invasion of Greece and talks of the bonds between Australia and Greece.
The exhibition includes 16 of Angela’s original works which are inspired by the ANZACs who fought alongside the Greeks during WWII.
One of the features of the exhibition is Angela’s artwork, ‘Convergence of Glory,’ which represents how the brave ANZACs travelled from the other side of the world to fight with the Greeks against the Nazi invaders.
“It is a journey to the past, where history teaches of sacrifice, determination, defeat, bloodshed, bravery and hope,” Angela said about her exhibition.
“Freedom is not granted. The legacy of heroes, Hellene, Australian, New Zealander freedom fighters, continues to be commemorated.”
Angela’s exhibition is open at the Camden Civic Centre until Saturday, March 25 from 9am to 12pm.
