Kalamata is once again innovating with the creation of a new artistic expression that adds to its dynamic cultural scene: the 1st International Photographic Meeting of Kalamata. This event is starting under the best auspices, thanks to the zeal and professionalism of its organizers.
With Giorgos Arvanitis, one of our greatest cinematographers and the historical director of photography for Theodoros Angelopoulos’s films, as its artistic director, this new artistic event doesn't hide its ambition to evolve into a significant institution, not only for photography but also for the wider audiovisual sector. It aims to establish itself as a platform for lively dialogue centered on photography, highlighting both of its dimensions: as an artistic expression and as an indisputable testimony of contemporary reality, which, in a fluid era, offers a multitude of starting points for creators of photographic art.
With special guest Jean-Marc Barr, a French director and photographer, and the presentation of seventeen solo and group photo exhibitions from Greece and abroad, three important lectures, two photography workshops, and two roundtables on contemporary artistic photography, as well as an educational program for middle and high school students in Messinia, the International Photographic Meeting offers a rich and flexible program of activities. Its main characteristic, and perhaps its strong point, is that it is not aimed only at those initiated into photographic art but at the general public. The Ministry of Culture could only encourage and support this new artistic initiative, including it in the "Creative Greece" program and providing its auspices and financial support.
With the 1st International Photographic Meeting, Kalamata adds another valuable tessera to the unique cultural mosaic for which it is a worthy guardian, extending from the place's emblematic cultural heritage to contemporary creation, with the International Dance Festival as its crowning achievement.
I am certain that the 1st International Photographic Meeting of Kalamata will not only leave a distinct imprint in its inaugural version but will also take root as a point of reference for the domestic and international photographic scene. It will evolve into another cultural institution, a pole of attraction for the general public who follow Kalamata's rich cultural life. I extend my thanks and congratulations to the organizers and participants, with the certainty that this inaugural event will be followed by many more in the future.
Dr Lina Mendoni
Minister of Culture