Victoria Square Project Athens – Art for people

Victoria Square Project was originally created by artists in the framework of documenta 14. Although it was intended to last for only one year, Victoria Square Project quickly became an integral part of everyday life in the Victoria neighborhood for locals, artists, and visitors. It serves as an art gallery, a learning hub, and a melting pot for artistic initiatives and the local population. The history of the neighborhood is very telling. Victoria square was named after Queen Victoria after Greece started regaining its independence in the 19th century. The area surrounding the square used to be very expensive and chic; however, after the 1980s the neighborhood started declining and being less and less safe. Fortunately, the area has been positively changing with the help of public initiatives and younger people relocating there.

Victoria Square Project is a living example of locals reclaiming their place in the city. There are talks and guided tours discussing the neighborhood's history, exhibitions such as the one focused on traditional handmade textiles with a modern twist, public sculptures, and a variety of workshops offered. I have participated in the Looming Together project where we spend our afternoons sitting at the common table on the pedestrian street, looming pieces of tapestry with the guidance of yayades (grannies) while the local kids play around. The people of Victoria Square Project want to highlight that art and culture should not be separated from the community. This is the path to building an inclusive and open-minded place to live.