Kostas Prapoglou: wandelust / all passports in the heart of Athens

Kostas Prapoglou is an internationally recognized curator, architect, and researcher whose work spans multiple disciplines. His practice often focuses on the dialogue between art, space, and history, emphasizing the interplay between contemporary artistic expressions and the environments they inhabit. Prapoglou’s curatorial approach is deeply rooted in themes of memory, cultural heritage, and human experience, creating exhibitions that challenge conventional perceptions and engage viewers on multiple sensory and intellectual levels.

“The Schliemann-Melas Mansion is connected to Heinrich Schliemann, a man whose archaeological discoveries reinforced the national narrative of the new Greek state after the end of Ottoman rule, to Ernst Ziller, one of the primary architects shaping neoclassical Athens, as well as to iconic landmarks in Athenian social life such as the Ideal cinema and restaurant. It has also functioned as a shell for other urban uses such as a school, a hotel, commercial stores, law and notary offices—important aspects of a city’s vibrant life.

 

The works of the artists conceptually centred around the theme of travel—real, imaginary, or spiritual—open doors and windows that have remained closed for years, like a breeze of life and creativity entering rooms long deprived of human presence, surrendered to decay and neglect, just before yet another chapter in the building’s long journey in the heart of the capital. For me as a curator, and for the artists as well, creating an exhibition in an inactive building is an evocative experience.

 

We are tasked with crafting a narrative that bears the weight of the history and collective memory embodied in the space, yet simultaneously aims to transcend it. The past and human stories are the soil that enables artistic creation to flourish, surprising visitors, evoking emotions, sparking reflections, and raising existential questions” states Kostas Prapoglou.

The non-profit cultural organization artefact athens proudly presents wanderlust/all passports, a contemporary art exhibition curated by Dr. Prapoglou, hosted in the iconic Schliemann-Mela Mansion from October 17 to November 17, 2024. This exhibition brings together the works of 44 distinguished contemporary artists from Greece and abroad. Through installations, video, sculpture, and painting, the exhibition delves into the concept of travel—not only as a physical act but as a journey of self-exploration and existential quest.

The exhibition is set within the architectural marvel of the Schliemann-Mela Mansion, designed by the famous architect Ernst Ziller in 1890 for the family of the renowned archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann. Over the years, the mansion has served as a residence, a school, a hotel, and offices, becoming an integral part of Athenian history. Today, it enters yet another phase of transition, as it is set to be restored to its former glory by Mitsis Group, which will transform the building into a luxurious 5-star hotel, reviving its lost architectural elements and historical grandeur.

 

The exhibition’s themes of inner exploration, emotional uplift, and the symbolic meaning of travel resonate powerfully within this historic setting. With the mansion’s storied past as a backdrop, the artists explore the concept of interconnectedness across space and time. They interrogate the reasons we journey—whether to satisfy our curiosity, explore the unknown, or engage with different cultures—and how these motivations echo those of travellers from antiquity, such as Schliemann himself.

 

Key sponsors Mitsis Group and Pyramida Construction & Design have played a vital role in bringing wanderlust/all passports to life. Their commitment to preserving Athens’ cultural heritage while supporting contemporary artistic endeavours is crucial in fostering a vibrant artistic community.

Visitors are kindly reminded to wear flat, closed-toe shoes for the exhibition, which will guide them through the mansion’s grand halls, intimate rooms, and winding corridors—a reflection of the emotional and existential journey that lies at the heart of wanderlust/all passports.