The educational institution Hellenism of Anatolia – from the Aegean Sea to the Pontos, in collaboration with the Australian Federation of Pontian Associations, is launching a museum exhibition titled ‘Asia Minor – Reflections of Everyday Life’.
The event will take place on Friday, 19 May at 6.30pm within the premises of the Holy Monastery of Axion Estin, under the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
The showcase promises to captivate visitors by offering a glimpse into our tangible and intangible cultural heritage. It features authentic objects, some of which were salvaged and brought by refugees during their arduous journey, along with replicas and a variety of audiovisual materials showcasing the vibrant culture, historical significance, and daily activities of the Anatolian Greeks.
“The exhibition seeks to foster connections between generations, enabling them to explore their roots and understand the collective narrative that shaped their identity while paying tribute to the vibrant everyday life experienced in the Unforgettable Homelands of Hellenism, where our ancestors thrived for over 3000 years,” Hellenism of Anatolia – from the Aegean Sea to Pontos coordinator Yiota Stavridou told Neos Kosmos.
It will be held during the First Ten-Day Tribute to the Hellenism of Anatolia, a commemorative event taking place from May 19 to May 29, 2023, at the bookshop building of Axion Esti in Northcote (7 Hartington St).
The exhibition will be open daily from 10am to 5pm., allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Anatolian Greeks.
For schools and other groups, the timetable can be adjusted by appointment.
In addition to the museum exhibition, an exclusive exhibition will showcase the works of students who participated in the 2022 Student Competition, which focused on the 100-year anniversary of the Asia Minor Catastrophe, as well as the history and culture of the Greeks of Asia Minor.
Community groups have also been extended a special invitation to visit the exhibition and partake in a guided tour conducted by experienced teachers, free of charge, during both morning and afternoon sessions.
“This exhibition serves as a platform for young talents to express their artistic interpretations and reflections on this significant historical event,” Ms Stavridou added.
“The guided tours aim to provide insightful narratives and enhance the visitors’ understanding of the exhibited artefacts, as well as the broader culture, history, and daily lives of the Greeks of Anatolia. Through this immersive experience, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the heritage of a significant part of the Greek diaspora and how their forced displacement from their ancestral homes ultimately influenced and shaped modern social life and culture.”
