Country Specific Context – Greece

Greece has a rich cultural heritage that has greatly influenced its creative industries and craft sectors. The country's historical significance, architecture, mythology, and arts have provided a strong foundation for various creative endeavors. Here are some key points related to Greece's creative industries and craft sectors:

1. Cultural Heritage: Greece is known for its historical sites, including iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and Parthenon. These sites attract tourists and serve as sources of inspiration for various creative professionals, from artists to writers.
2. Visual Arts: Greece has a vibrant contemporary art scene, with numerous galleries and art exhibitions across the country. Athens, the capital city, has a burgeoning arts district, attracting both local and international artists.
3. Film and Entertainment: The Greek film industry has gained recognition at international film festivals. Notably, Yorgos Lanthimos, a Greek director, has achieved global acclaim for films like "The Lobster" and "The Favourite."
4. Crafts and Traditions: Greece has a long history of traditional crafts, including pottery, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork. Regions like Crete and Rhodes are known for their distinct crafts that are often tied to local culture and mythology.
5. Tourism and Souvenirs: Greece's tourism industry has led to the popularity of craft-related souvenirs. Visitors often purchase handmade items such as olive oil soap, textiles, and ceramics as mementos of their trips.

6. Music and Performing Arts: Traditional Greek music, including genres like rebetiko and bouzouki music, has influenced modern music. Additionally, traditional Greek dance forms are showcased at cultural events and festivals.
7. Cultural Festivals: Greece hosts various cultural festivals celebrating arts, music, theater, and literature. The Athens Epidaurus Festival is a prominent event featuring theater performances in ancient theaters.
8. Challenges: Economic challenges in recent years have impacted the arts and creative sectors. Funding for cultural initiatives and projects has sometimes been limited, making it difficult for artists and organizations to thrive.
9. Digital Transformation: Like in many countries, digital platforms have become increasingly important for artists to showcase their work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when physical events were limited.
10. Government Support: The Greek government recognizes the importance of creative industries and cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to support artists, preserve cultural sites, and promote Greece's creative output internationally.

So, what is happening in our region? Mapping initiatives, past and present

1. Greek Creative Economy: The Greek government has recognized the potential of the creative economy and has been taking steps to support it. Initiatives have included funding for cultural projects, entrepreneurship in the creative sectors, and promoting cultural tourism.
2. Cultural Heritage Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve and promote Greece's rich cultural heritage. This includes the restoration and maintenance of historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks to attract both tourists and local visitors.
3. Art Festivals and Events: Greece hosts various art festivals and events throughout the year. The Athens Epidaurus Festival, for example, is a major event featuring theater performances and other cultural activities.
4. Contemporary Art Spaces: Athens has seen the rise of contemporary art spaces and galleries that showcase the work of local and international artists. These spaces provide platforms for artists to exhibit their creations.
5. Craft Revival: Traditional crafts have experienced a revival in some regions. Artisans and craftspeople are working to preserve traditional techniques while also infusing modern design elements to attract a wider audience.
6. Cultural Entrepreneurship: The concept of cultural entrepreneurship has gained traction, encouraging individuals to turn their creative passions into viable businesses. This includes various forms of artistic expression, from design to culinary arts.

7. Film Industry Support: Greece has been working to attract international film productions to the country. Incentives such as tax breaks have been introduced to encourage filmmakers to shoot in Greek locations.
8. Digital Platforms: Like in many countries, digital platforms and social media have become crucial for artists to showcase their work, especially during the pandemic when physical events were limited.
9. Craft Workshops and Schools: Some organizations and institutions offer workshops and training programs to teach traditional crafts to new generations, ensuring that these skills are not lost.
10. International Collaboration: Greek artists and creative professionals have engaged in international collaborations, participating in exhibitions, residencies, and exchange programs to share their work and learn from others.
11. Funding Opportunities: Various grants, funding schemes, and awards have been made available to support artists, cultural organizations, and creative projects in Greece.
12. Cultural Tourism: The promotion of cultural tourism has led to a demand for locally crafted souvenirs and products. This has provided opportunities for artisans to showcase their crafts to a broader audience.

• Art-Athina: Art-Athina is an annual international contemporary art fair held in Athens. It brings together galleries, artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to showcase and promote contemporary art from Greece and around the world.
• Impact Hub Athens: Impact Hub Athens is a co-working space and innovation hub that supports social entrepreneurship and creative initiatives. It provides a collaborative environment for individuals and organizations working on projects with a social impact.
• Greek Film Center: The Greek Film Center is a public organization that supports and promotes Greek cinema. It provides funding for film production, distribution, and development, aiming to foster the growth of the Greek film industry.
• Museum of Cycladic Art: Located in Athens, the Museum of Cycladic Art focuses on the art and culture of the ancient Aegean and Cyprus. It houses an extensive collection of Cycladic, Minoan, and Cypriot artifacts, contributing to the preservation and appreciation of the region's cultural heritage.
• Herakleidon Museum: The Herakleidon Museum in Athens is dedicated to promoting the visual arts, science, and mathematics. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs that bridge the gap between art and science.

• Greek National Opera (GNO): The Greek National Opera is a major cultural institution that presents opera, ballet, and other performing arts events. It operates in both Athens and Thessaloniki, contributing to the country's performing arts scene.
• Krama Wheel: Krama Wheel is a social enterprise that focuses on promoting Greek crafts and supporting artisans. It collaborates with local craftsmen and artisans to create high-quality handmade products, including textiles and accessories.
• SynAthina: SynAthina is an initiative that aims to strengthen social cohesion and community engagement in Athens. It supports various grassroots projects and social enterprises, including those related to arts, culture, and urban development.
• Elliniki Etairia: Also known as the Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage, Elliniki Etairia focuses on the protection and enhancement of Greece's natural and cultural heritage. It promotes sustainable development and the preservation of historic sites.
• Ermoupolis Seminars: Ermoupolis Seminars is an organization that offers educational programs, workshops, and cultural events in Syros, an island in the Cyclades. It covers a wide range of topics, including art, literature, and philosophy.