Sydney artists Poppy Papantoniou and Nikos Bonovas will offer two artworks, inspired by the Parthenon marbles, to be auctioned during an event for the official launch of the International Organising Committee for the Restituion of the Parthenon Marbles Inc. website.
The new website, www.parthenonmarblesaustralia.org.au, aims to increase pressure to the British Government to retun the marbles to Greece which will be launched at an official function in Sydney on March 14.
“Unfortunately, the alleged promises to return the marbles to their mother land have been denied. This has truly disappointed me. Despite the major destructions of 1687, the plunder caused by Lord Elgin and centuries passing by, the Parthenon’s unique beauty will always exist within civilization as the holy shrine of the Immortal Greek Spirit. I would like to thank Mr Comino and his Committee for giving me the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings regarding this topic.” Mrs Papantoniou said.
Nikos Bonovas who is the artist behind NikosArt was also inspired by the Committee’s campaign.
“What is happening with the Parthenon Marbles is a disgrace. There was an artistic crime committed over 200 years ago. The fact that Lord Elgin’s ancestors don’t seem to realise it and try to redeem themselves makes me sad. The whole world must realise the magnitude of this crime. The marbles are our history and the continuation of this injustice is a great insult towards the Greek people of all generations” Mr Bonovas said.
The website www.parthenonmarblesaustralia.org.au will be launched at the Athenian Restaurant, 11 Barrack Street, Sydney on Wedensday 14 March at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $60 and to book contact Dennis 0423 825 905 or email events@parthenonmarblesaustralia.org.au
