The art of Athens-based Angeliki Angelidis reveals her deep fascination with Asian culture and her roots in European traditions. Her bold canvasses blend place and time, philosophy and action in a dynamic style that combines the visual language of East and West.

Whether it’s a pastiche depicting the French Revolution or an ancient sea battle in the Med, Angelidis’ contemporary art connects with the history of Europe while being highly indebted to Korean culture. The Greek colour palette of blue and gold is redefined with a Korean lens and used to conceive visual stories in new ways.

Angeliki Angelidis

Interpretations exhibition

Following on from a number of exhibitions in Ankara, Athens and the UK, in February 2022 Angelidis brings her Interpretations exhibition to the Rotunda at the headquarters of the European External Action Service (EEAS). Complementing other exhibitions at the European Parliament and the European Commission at the same time, Interpretations marks a new departure for Europe’s diplomatic service in the use of visual communication to bring people together.

‘I begin with the philosophy of Korea,’ she says, of her bold and brilliant canvasses. ‘My vision was to make Korean culture represent Europe through this combination,’ she says.

Angeliki Angelidis

Ancient cultures

As Angelidis sees it, both Greece and Korea are relatively small countries with sophisticated ancient cultures. Because of their geographical positions, both have often undergone historical invasions from powerful neighbours. Her images reflect the history, philosophy and mythology of both places.

She also sees global similarities between the cultures of Greece and Korea, which in some respects, to her mind, occupies the space between the cultures of Japan and China. She speaks Korean and is committed to understanding the culture at every level.

Of course, the influence of Greece in Western culture and language is seen everywhere. This cultural aspect also unites both places. And, if she has one overall theme for her her art it’s unity. ‘I love to unify people and staying unified is important to me,’ she says.

• To discover more about the artist and her work, follow the link to visit the Official Website of Angeliki Angelidis
• Follow the link for more information about Contemporary Art Exhibitions at EEAS HQ.