Greek artist George Petridis’ exhibition opens at Sismanoglio Megaro in Istanbul
Works by George Petridis from the exhibition "Hellenic Heads: A Personal Exploration of Greek History and Culture Over 2,500 Years." (Photo via Eleni Karamiti)
An exhibition by Greek-American sculptor George Petridis, titled “Hellenic Heads: A Personal Exploration of Greek History and Culture Over 2,500 Years,” opened on March 20 at the Sismanoglio Megaro Hall in Istanbul. The event was part of the Greek Consulate General’s celebrations for Greece’s National Day.
High-level attendance at opening ceremony
The opening was attended by representatives of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, members of the clergy, diplomats accredited in Istanbul, members of the Greek Orthodox community, Turkish and Greek business figures, and leading representatives of Turkish and Greek media.
In his speech, Greek Consul General Ambassador Konstantinos Koutras emphasized Greece’s commitment to peace and international dispute resolution. He also highlighted Greece’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2025-2026 term and noted the ongoing dialogue between Greece and Türkiye at various levels.
Visa program expansion for Turkish citizens
Ambassador Koutras also announced that following initiatives by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the European Commission has extended the seven-day visa-on-arrival program for Turkish citizens visiting the Aegean islands.
The program, which will now include Patmos and Samothrace, in addition to the previously listed ten islands, has been extended for another year starting April 1.
A journey through Greek history in sculpture
Regarding the exhibition, Koutras stated: “As part of Greece’s National Day celebrations, we wanted to include a cultural event that highlights our rich heritage. George Petridis’ sculptures depict six distinct periods of Greek history, from Classical Greece and the Byzantine Empire to the Nazi Occupation and the Holocaust.”
George Petridis, in a recorded message played at the event, expressed his pride in showcasing his works in Istanbul: “I am honored that my ‘Hellenic Heads’ continue their journey around the world, sharing Greek history and culture with thousands of visitors. Istanbul, as a historical crossroads of civilizations and a city of international significance, is a fitting location for this exhibition.”
Exhibition and its artistic concept
The exhibition consists of six large-scale busts, each over two meters in height, drawing inspiration from Greek history. Petridis studied masterpieces by sculptors such as Michelangelo and Rodin, as well as archaeological findings and historical photographs. Each sculpture was modeled after a family member or based on photographs and memories.
First launched at the Greek Embassy in Washington, D.C., on Europe Day in 2022, the exhibition has since toured several locations before arriving in Istanbul, supported by Aegean Airlines.
The exhibition is open to visitors at the Sismanoglio Megaro Hall in central Istanbul from March 21 to April 17, between 12:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. daily.
Who is George Petridis
Born in Athens in 1964, George Petridis splits his time between Athens and New York. Influenced by classical Greek sculpture from an early age, his artistic journey includes studies in New York (New York Studio School and Art Students League) and Paris (Académie de la Grande Chaumière). He transitioned into full-time artistry in 2018 after a career in finance.
Specializing in public sculptures, Petridis has over 20 works displayed across Asia, Europe, and the United States, with several classified as monumental, standing over two meters tall in outdoor spaces.
