Merimbula\u00a0was originally presented in the context of Danae Stratou\u2019s solo show titled\u00a0Burning Issues \u2013 Merimbula. Curated by Christoforos Marinos and organised by the City of Athens Culture, Sports and Youth Organisation (OPANDA), the show was hosted at The City of Athens Art Centre, in Parko Eleftherias (Freedom Park), Athens, Greece from 25 May to 10 July 2022.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” delay=”100″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745942367358{padding-right: 10% !important;}” text_direction=”default”]\n
The show comprised two juxtaposed installations that dramatically transformed the Arts Centre\u2019s architectural space. To achieve this, the artist worked in close collaboration with the installation architect Maria Maneta. Danae Stratou constructed an immersive environment featuring the representation of a healthy forest (Merimbula), in one installation, and a powerful video of large sheets of paper burning incessantly at a very slow pace in the other. Highlighting fire, its symbolism, and destructive consequences. Visitors entered a space of spiritual awakening, cleansing, and purification. This exhibition by Stratou speaks to pressing issues of our time \u2013 the urgency of developing ecological awareness and strengthening environmental responsibility.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_content” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#333333″ video_bg=”use_video” video_external=”https:\/\/vimeo.com\/797361777″ background_video_loading=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” enable_gradient=”true” color_overlay=”rgba(10,10,10,0.68)” color_overlay_2=”rgba(10,10,10,0.23)” overlay_strength=”0.8″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_video link=”https:\/\/vimeo.com\/797361777″ align=”center” css=””][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”8%” bottom_padding=”4%” left_padding_desktop=”8%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”8%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”about-text” overlay_strength=”1″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][split_line_heading animation_type=”line-reveal-by-space” font_style=”h1″ line_reveal_by_space_text_effect=”default” content_alignment=”default” mobile_content_alignment=”inherit” link_target=”_self” text_content=”Australia\u2019s forests engender a rich symbolism related to the contradictions of modern human society.” text_direction=”default”][\/split_line_heading][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745942431729{padding-right: 10% !important;}” text_direction=”default”]\n
The Merimbula Forest is a coastal area in south-eastern New South Wales that in 2019 was destroyed by unprecedented forest fires, sparking a heated debate about climate change among communities that had previously refused it. The photographs featured in the installation were taken by the artist in 2009 & 2010, along with recordings of Australian bell magpies, which have now turned silent.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” delay=”100″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745942447203{padding-right: 10% !important;}” text_direction=”default”]The floor area was entirely covered with a rich layer of dark fertile soil while the walls were papered over, from floor to ceiling, with wallpaper vividly depicting the Merimbula forest (New South Wales, Australia, burned down in January 2020). The thirty metre photographic spread, covering the installation space\u2019s walls, was created by connecting\/editing about 100 photographs of a forest clearing in Merimbula\u2019s forested area. A soundscape featured the famous bell songbirds that used to dominate the Merimbula forest (as recorded in situ) by Danae Stratou during her travels in the area.[\/vc_column_text][nectar_single_testimonial testimonial_style=”basic_left_image” image=”11275″ text_color=”#000000″ name=”Danae Stratou” subtitle=”Artist”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_content” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#333333″ video_bg=”use_video” video_external=”https:\/\/vimeo.com\/797361777″ background_video_loading=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” enable_gradient=”true” color_overlay=”rgba(10,10,10,0.68)” color_overlay_2=”rgba(10,10,10,0.23)” overlay_strength=”0.8″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_video link=”https:\/\/vimeo.com\/797376379″ align=”center” css=””][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#0a0a0a” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”10%” bottom_padding=”10%” left_padding_desktop=”8%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”8%” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”1″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][split_line_heading animation_type=”line-reveal-by-space” font_style=”h1″ line_reveal_by_space_text_effect=”default” content_alignment=”default” mobile_content_alignment=”inherit” link_target=”_self” text_content=”Until only a few years ago, climate change was regarded by many as an isolated
\nphenomenon, removed from social and political circumstances.” text_direction=”default”][\/split_line_heading][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”3%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”In the spring of 2021, TIME magazine pointed out the shift in attitude concerning the impact of the environmental crisis, emphatically stating that \u2018climate is everything.\u2019 The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that our troubled planet is small, after all, that we form part of a strong yet vulnerable network where everything interacts with and affects everything else. Some spoke of the end of globalisation; others used the term \u2018climatisation\u2019 to describe the process by which climate change transforms society.” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1745944585887{padding-right: 10% !important;}”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” delay=”100″][vc_custom_heading text=”Expected to be the biggest issue in the decades to come, climatisation dictates a change in the way we think. Everything will have to change dramatically in the light of the climate crisis, which, as TIME editors say, is now widespread and affects many aspects of social life \u2013 economy, public health, racial justice, housing policy, labour\/productivity, food and consumption, crime, migration and ultimately politics. To be precise, the challenge of climate change will \u2013 if it hasn\u2019t already \u2013 become a major political issue. Meanwhile, one word constantly crops up in this debate \u2013 intersections between climate and the pressing socio-political issues of our time.” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”8%” bottom_padding=”4%” left_padding_desktop=”8%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”8%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” id=”about-text” overlay_strength=”1″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=”” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][split_line_heading animation_type=”line-reveal-by-space” font_style=”h1″ line_reveal_by_space_text_effect=”default” content_alignment=”default” mobile_content_alignment=”inherit” link_target=”_self” text_content=”Danae Stratou\u2019s exhibition Burning Issues | Merimbula examines these topical
\nintersections, stressing the implications of climate change for our lives.” text_direction=”default”][\/split_line_heading][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745943481738{padding-right: 10% !important;}” text_direction=”default”]\n
As the title suggests, the exhibition consists of two parts, functioning as a diptych, in painting terms. Symbolically dealing with burning issues, such as those mentioned above, the first part comprises a 3.5 by 1 m. landscape video projection of sheets of paper burning in very slow motion. It is a composition of nine flaming pieces of paper that together compose a \u2018landscape.\u2019 Before this landscape of reverie and hypnotic beauty, certain thoughts by Gaston Bachelard spring to mind: \u2018\u2026 all that changes quickly is explained by fire\u2019 \/ \u2018Fire is \u2026 a privileged phenomenon which can explain anything\u2019 \/ \u2018Fire is more a social than a natural reality.\u2019<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”padding-3-percent” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” delay=”100″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745943496832{padding-right: 10% !important;}” text_direction=”default”]The second part of the exhibition comprises an installation inspired by the rainforests near Merimbula, in New South Wales, Australia, which the artist visited in 2010. To communicate the experience of this enchanting forest, much of which burned in the devastating bushfires of 2019\u201320, Stratou used some one hundred photos she took to envelop the venue in a 33m.-long installation. This photographic evocation of the forest is accompanied by the intoxicating chirping of native birds, of the species known as bellbirds, which the artist recorded in the field. At the same time, the fragrance of fresh soil spread out on the floor arouses the sense of smell, creating an immersive environment. With the help of lighting designed to evoke the alternation of day and night, visitors travel back in time to a paradise lost \u2013 a landscape of exotic beauty that can now only be regarded as mythical.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_content” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” 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type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#0a0a0a” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”10%” bottom_padding=”10%” left_padding_desktop=”8%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”8%” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” color_overlay=”#000000″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][split_line_heading animation_type=”line-reveal-by-space” font_style=”h1″ line_reveal_by_space_text_effect=”default” content_alignment=”default” mobile_content_alignment=”inherit” link_target=”_self” text_content=”Similarly to other works by Danae Stratou, this project is anthropocentric and crosscultural.” text_direction=”default”][\/split_line_heading][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”3%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”The journey lies at the heart of this project. Were it not for the journey \u2013 which feeds many of the artist\u2019s works \u2013 this exhibition would never have been realised. Stratou has worked extensively in nature and with land. From an early age, she yearned to travel around the globe and understand different lifestyles. \u2018Australia\u2019s nature is incredible \u2013 so different from anything I\u2019ve ever seen on this planet. From animal species that do not exist anywhere else to rare tree species. Nature there is spectacular, more dominant than culture on this continent. The trees and vegetation looked like nothing I had ever seen before \u2013 that\u2019s why I took these photographs and made these field recordings. It\u2019s my own way of understanding a place,\u2019 the artist notes.” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1745944679138{padding-right: 10% !important;}”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” delay=”100″][vc_custom_heading text=”Back in 2010, Stratou had no idea that the experience of that journey would morph into an art piece. Ten years later, \u2018Merimbula\u2019 joined \u2018Burning Issues,\u2019 which derived from an unrealised project involving paper, justice and prisons. \u2018This was after the 2012 Syntagma Square events, the fires in the city, when it became clear that society had begun to revolt against this situation, the economic crises. What could I do to reflect on what\u2019s going on using paper? That\u2019s when I conceived the idea of sheets of paper burning, at a very slow pace, symbolically conveying the current events, the street fires during protests in Athens, which were unprecedented things for us. This piece was a commentary on that situation, the social upheaval, the slow-burning flame. That was my original concept.\u2019” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=””][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#0a0a0a” bg_image=”16795″ bg_position=”left top” background_image_loading=”default” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”10%” bottom_padding=”10%” left_padding_desktop=”8%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”8%” text_color=”light” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” color_overlay=”#000000″ overlay_strength=”0.5″ gradient_direction=”radial” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”3%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”The Burning Issues | Merimbula \u2018diptych\u2019 at the Arts Centre brings to mind communicating vessels, separated by an intermediate space that provides necessary distance \u2013 breathing space \u2013 so that visitors can process what they see and establish correspondences with the history of the building (a place of torture during the seven-year dictatorship of 1967\u201374 and a monument to the symbolic and moral aspects of resistance) and with the surrounding area, Parko Eleftherias (Freedom Park), where the venue is located. Essentially, Merimbula serves as a prime example of the pressing issues raised by Stratou. Although the bushfire-damaged Merimbula rainforest makes her example globally relevant, it also brings to mind similar tragedies in Greece, such as the devastating fires in northern Evia, at the foot of Mount Parnitha and in Mati, Attica, to mention only the most recent ones. Implicitly, at least, Stratou\u2019s exhibition is a critique of the indifference and negligence of the administrations, suggesting the need for resistance and protest, but also for urgent measures to deal with the climate crisis. \u2018Of course there is criticism, but I am also interested in how awareness can be raised even on the physical plane through the language of art, which is not always purely cerebral,\u2019 the artist points out.” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”3%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”This was a project of considerable urgency \u2013 on the one hand due to the issues it raises (the human-environment interaction, the interdependence of the natural and the human) and on the other because it highlights the social purpose of art. According to Stratou, \u2018the artist\u2019s job is to listen to society and the historical moment in which we live and bring to light what is already there but is not visible or is ignored. In my generation, we sought to tell a big truth, hence the scale of our works. I\u2019ve always focused on the forest, not just the tree. Maybe that\u2019s typical of the way I perceive the world and how I feel that it\u2019s important to show things. It\u2019s as if I observed the big picture from above and comment on it.\u2019 The picture commented on in Burning Issues | Merimbula is indeed tragic. Viewers are urged to reflect on this transformed drama, but they won\u2019t feel disconcerted. The thought that the ancient forest will be reborn over time is comforting. Contemplating the burning paper evokes the game of life and death \u2013 a theme that is constantly present in Stratou\u2019s mind. But life first, then death. Because, to recall the philosopher\u2019s words, just like a beautiful forest, \u2018fire and heat \u2026 have been for us the occasion for unforgettable memories, simple and decisive personal experiences.\u2019” font_container=”tag:p|text_align:left|color:rgba(255%2C255%2C255%2C0.71)” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=””][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” top_padding=”3%” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”top-bottom” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1\/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” animation_easing=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][nectar_single_testimonial testimonial_style=”basic_left_image” image=”16805″ text_color=”#ffffff” name=”Christoforos Marinos” subtitle=”Art historian, OPANDA curator of exhibitions and events”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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