Greek President Inaugurates "Democracy" Exhibition at National Gallery of Art

On Thursday night, Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou officially inaugurated the highly anticipated exhibition "Democracy" at the National Gallery of Art.

In her opening remarks, Sakellaropoulou emphasised the exhibition's significance amid the current international climate, where voices challenging democracy are increasingly prevalent. She described the exhibition as "not only fascinating, but absolutely necessary."

"I am happy to inaugurate the exhibition 'Democracy', with which the National Gallery of Art participates in the 50th anniversary since the restoration of democracy," President Sakellaropoulou stated.

The exhibition commemorates the era of democratic transitions in Southern Europe, particularly the collapse of dictatorships in Spain, Portugal, and Greece half a century ago. "A breeze of rejoicing, expectations, and hope spread in the region, a liberating wind that revived peoples," Sakellaropoulou reflected.

She highlighted the vital role of art during these transformative periods, quoting Heinrich Böll's notion of art as synonymous with freedom. "Art observes, records, judges, and intervenes in the sensational events of the times. It never remains silent," she said, underscoring the exhibition's exploration of the political function of art in challenging times.

Fernando Botero, Franco, 1986 Oil on canvas, 226 x 168 cm Donation of the artist, 2003Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía Photo Credits: Joaquín Cortés / Román LoresThe "Democracy" exhibition opens to the public on Friday and will be on display until February 2, 2025.

(Source: Amna)