MONTH IN REVIEW: August 2025
A roundup of this past month’s art and design news about the makers and creators from Greece and Cyprus
Sophia Marilyn Nelson
Drake’s Launched a New Hydra-Inspired Collection by Michael McGregor
Michael McGregor is a Los Angeles-based artist who re-imagines everyday objects into wide-eye still life's that are colorful and spontaneous, often depicted on hotel-stationary. He has a strong affinity for Greece, and has published numerous site-specific sketchbooks of the island. His designs are now featured in a new clothing line for Drake’s. Inspired by his time on the island of Hydra, this collection spotlights McGregor’s spirited observations of the local landmarks, cuisine, and culture.
Offering collared shirts, tees, silk bandanas, caps, and a limited number of hand-painted work jackets, this line is sure to inspire summer to stick around a little longer.
Images courtesy of Drake’s website
Kypseli Recognized as a Creative Hub in Athens that Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
T Magazine — The New York Times’ Style Publication — featured the Athens neighborhood of Kypseli as a vibrant hub for immigrants and artists. With its collage of eclectic architecture, creative inspiration is everywhere.
Some offerings of this neighborhood include Kypseli Print Studio, founded by Eleanor Lines, following her artist residency in Kypseli in 2016. The studio hosts workshops and residencies that continue to nurture and amplify the artistic spirit of the area. The neighborhood is also rich in culinary and social offerings. It’s a Vilatz and Komna Tranka are two standout cafés and bars, each known for its distinctive atmosphere. On the dining side, restaurants like Bakalogatos and Ntylan, present innovative menus that reflect Kypseli’s eclectic and evolving identity.
As a piece of Athens’ history, Kypseli continues to bridge the past and present, celebrating a legacy of diversity and creativity that is very much alive in its streets today.
Images courtesy of @itsavitlaz, @komna_traka, and Kypseli Print Studio Website
Cypriot Artifacts Repatriated from the U.S.
A Cypro-Archaic chariot sculpture dating back to 600 B.C. and a Cypro-Geometric jug from 750 B.C. were both repatriated in a ceremony at the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Washington, D.C. The two pieces were voluntarily returned from the Art for Eternity Gallery in New York City.
This follows the trend of repatriation in recent years, as in December 2024, over 200 Cypriot artifacts from the Bronze and Roman Ages were returned to their rightful home from Los Angeles.
Photo Courtesy of The National Herald
The Observer Looked into the Effects of Overtourism in Greece
40.7 million tourists visited Greece last year, according to the Bank of Greece. With numbers soaring even in the sweltering summer heat, it leaves questions about what the future may hold for the local population and the country's infrastructure. Large crowds put more strain on municipal workers, and locals are the ones paying for it. Those large numbers also mean fewer staycations for Greeks, as they are priced out by the skyrocketing costs the success in tourism brings. Taxes and levies have been proposed for incoming passengers as a possible solution. Although tourism remains a vital part of Greece’s economy, a sustainable way forward remains to be seen.
Visionary Producer, Halime Özdemir di Larusso, Launched Magnus Tempus 360
Halima Özdemir di Larusso, a multidisciplinary arts producer with decades of international experience, returned to her Cypriot roots to kick start Magnus Tempus 360. This platform is dedicated to supporting contemporary artists, filmmakers, and thinkers across diverse creative fields, from art and music to film, literature, fashion, through cultural programming and biennial residencies. With a commitment to Cyprus and its future, this initiative marks a new step in the landscape of the Mediterranean art world. Magnus Tempus 360 places artists at the center, championing their voices and supporting their role in challenging the status quo.
Portrait by Holly Whittaker, all others through Magnus Tempus
Cyprus Welcomed the First Larnaca Film Festival
August 28-31 marks the inaugural edition of the Larnaca Film Festival, featuring a series of free screening events held at several locations across Cyprus.
Among the films featured this year is Skammata, a documentary by Danae Stylianou about Cyprus’ archaeological history. Woven together by individual memory and collective trauma, the film opens the door to reflection on the impacts of the Turkish invasion.
Another female director, Paola Cortellesi, will be featured this year. Her film There’s Still Tomorrow (C’è ancora domani) is a black-and-white period piece that follows the tribulations of a woman raising her three children.
August 31st, the final evening of the festival, will conclude with a roster of short films all by Cypriot artists.
All courtesy of Larnaka Cinema
