Since the days of Zeus and Hera Grecian culture has influenced art and politics around the world, and thousands of years later, we continue to see its impacts. A group of lucky Gulf Coast State College students and faculty were given the opportunity to experience Greece firsthand. They went abroad to study the culture and art Greece has to offer and learn why the ancient Greeks had such a timeless influence that reached far beyond its borders. The students were able to create art, drawing from their own personal experiences and their musings provided by Greece. Some pieces that were created are featured in the art exhibition, “Made in Greece X”, which is currently being held in the Amelia Center Gallery.
Some galleries can be underwhelming and under stimulating, but this exhibit catches your eye at every turn, and it is easy to see the influence of Greece in the work. When walking into the gallery guests are immersed in a collection of mixed media artwork from pottery and ceramics to photographs and written word. There is art hanging on the walls and from the ceiling. There are pieces that must be viewed from all angles, forcing you to circle them to observe each detail. There is even a journal with photos and writing from the artist that you must flip through. The interactive aspect of the exhibit keeps guests engaged and makes the experience more memorable.
Other notable works of art are Beer Kantharos, by Caleb Jordan and My Journey Through Greece by Rainey Smith. Beer Kantharos is a small ceramic amphora, which were traditionally used to store wine, with the “Budweiser” beer brand painted on it. It is an excellent example of merging ancient art with modern day advertising. My Journey Through Greece also seemed to marry the ancient and modern worlds. It is a journal, with a different photograph on each page, containing handwritten words detailing the artists’ experiences in Greece. It is like an old school version of Instagram.
Troy Hill
Student Writer - Fall 2024
This was written for DIG 2151: Writing for Media.