The exhibition ‘From Imbros Over The Sea’ returns to Melbourne later this month when it heads to the Greek Community of Melbourne.
The northern Aegean Island of Imbros and its population played a significant but little appreciated role in the Gallipoli campaign and Australia’s Anzac story.
Research by historian Jim Claven OAM reveals that Imbros was a major base for the Gallipoli campaign.
The island was transformed and its people impacted by its effects.
It was from the waters of Imbros that the Anzacs made their final approach to Anzac Cove on April 25 1915.
The island also became a major naval, land and aircraft base for the duration of the campaign as well as the home for the Allied Headquarters.
Claven reveals this story through his exhibition of 21 large panels and its associated book.
It contains reproductions of photographs and artworks from the time with text that tell all, but most importantly, the impact it had on the Hellenic locals.
Claven was commissioned to undertake this commemorative project by the Imvrians’ Society of Melbourne with the support of the Victorian Government, Victorian Veterans Council and other donors.
The free presentation launching the exhibition will take place on Thursday May 23 at 7pm, with a small selection of panels on display.
That weekend on Saturday May 25, from 12pm to 5pm, and Sunday May 26, 11am-4pm, the full display will be open for viewing.
The presentation and Exhibition will be held on the Mezzanine Level at the Greek Centre, 168 Lonsdale Street.
From Imbros Over The Sea had a launch in Melbourne’s Parkdale last year and recent successful displays in Sydney and Brisbane.
A few weeks ago, on the day before Anzac Day, Claven took the exhibition to Oakleigh Grammar, so it’s students can learn more of Imbros’s role in the Gallipoli campaign.
