13 September 2006

Ikona: Photographs by Georgia Metaxas, a Monash Gallery of Art Travelling Exhibition, will open at the Shepparton Art Gallery on 27 September.

Commissioner of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Vicki Mitsos, will officially open the exhibition on Wednesday 4 October at 10.00am. Artist Georgia Metaxas will then give a free talk, followed by refreshments at 11.15am.

Gallery Director Leanne Willis says that the exhibition comprises over 30 images depicting young adults of the Greek community, its rituals, celebrations and traditions.

“Through photo representation, Metaxas aims to affirm and promote the historical and continuing contribution of the Greek community to Melbourne’s cultural diversity,” says Ms Willis.

“Melbourne has the largest Greek community outside of Greece and the exhibition reflects on a community whose foundations are so deeply embedded and so strong.”

“The vitality of the exhibition is an affirmation of the dynamic nature of the diversity, identity and culture in multicultural Australia.”

“The exhibition also contributes to the dialogue of contemporary documentary photography today.”

Metaxas, a social documentary visual artist says: “A common theme in my photo-artwork has always been the exploration of social identity and its connection to heritage and family history.”

“The documentary aspects of my work acknowledge my interest in photojournalism and the tension found between ‘artistic’ intent and documentary purpose.”

“The success of the work hinges on its truthful connection to reality.”

Ikona: Photographs by Georgia Metaxas opens on 27 September and continues until 22 October.