NEW YORK, NY – A powerful bronze sculpture, “Suppliants” (1958), by acclaimed Greek artist Frosso Efthymiadi-Menegaki, was unveiled at UN Headquarters on February 24th, marking the commencement of Greece’s term on the UN Security Council. The high-level event, hosted by Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, underscored the importance of art and cultural diplomacy in conveying messages of universal significance.
The sculpture, on loan from the National Gallery – Alexandria Soutsos Museum in Athens, evokes themes of hope, protection, and the plight of the vulnerable, resonating deeply with the UN’s mission. Efthymiadi-Menegaki (1911-1995) was a pioneering figure in Greek art, becoming the first female member of the Academy of Athens in 1980. “Suppliants” is being displayed in the United States for the first time.
Attendees from the UN diplomatic community and Secretariat gathered in the Visitors’ Lobby – Poseidon area, admiring the artwork and its powerful message. Foreign Minister Gerapetritis, the Greek Prime Minister, Ambassador Eva Sakeris, and National Gallery Director Syrago Tsiara each spoke to the significance of exhibiting this important work of modern Greek sculpture at the UN, emphasizing its relevance to contemporary global challenges.
“Suppliants” will reside temporarily at the Permanent Mission of Greece to the UN (@GRUN_NY) and will be displayed again at UN Headquarters during Greece’s UN Security Council Presidency in May.
About the Artist and the Artwork:
Frosso Efthymiadi-Menegaki (1911-1995) drew inspiration from both classical antiquity and European modernism. “Suppliants,” crafted from hammered iron, depicts two stylized female figures with uplifted arms, evoking a timeless plea for protection. Inspired by Aeschylus’s tragedy “The Suppliants,” the sculpture symbolizes the plight of refugees, migrants, and all vulnerable individuals seeking refuge.
The artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for international cooperation and humanitarian action. Efthymiadi-Menegaki, a prolific sculptor who worked primarily with terracotta and metal, is recognized as a key figure in modern Greek art. Her work often features the female form and explorations of movement and abstraction. The display of “Suppliants” at the UN offers a unique opportunity to engage with the artist’s vision and its enduring relevance to contemporary issues.