For the eighth consecutive year, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is illuminating the Christmas season, inviting visitors to a dazzling artistic experience. Six installations explore the theme ‘Dreamy Dreams: Dreamy Landscapes of the Festival of Light Installations’ presented at the Stavros Niarchos Park. This year’s light installations continue the tradition of blending technology and simplicity to transform public spaces. The featured artists include internationally renowned creators, as well as emerging Greek talent. Among the highlights are Squidsoup, a UK-based collective of artists and designers, presenting ‘Wave’ – an interactive piece of 500 spheres that come alive through sound and light. The Dutch duo Paul Vendel and Sandra de Wolf bring their work ‘Error,’ where everyday objects are repurposed to mimic the natural forms of the universe. In ‘Moonburn,’ the Dutch collective Stichting Barstow blends atmospheric lighting with painting, creating a piece that reflects the glow of Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ under the full moon. The Danish artists Hans Madsen and Frederik Hougs exhibit ‘Pressure,’ a dynamic light installation in the Dome representing the complexity of human thought. The festival runs from December 1 to January 7 with lighting starting at 7 p.m. daily. [NIKOS KARANIKOLAS]
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (364 Syngrou) in Athens goes all out for the last Sunday of Carnival, transforming into a vibrant celebration filled with music, dance and fun for all ages. DJ Palov kicks off the festivities with an energetic mix of jazz, funk and Latin beats, followed by Los Petralonicos’ psychedelic fusion and Bloco Swingueira’s electrifying samba. The party continues on Clean Monday with the traditional Koulouma (Clean Monday) festival, featuring Greek folk music and dance performances, including lively circle dances. Admission is free.
