Snapshot of better days ahead
In a recent presentation assessing its operations over the past seven years and prospective plans, the Skopelos Photographic Center, whose previous financial woes forced it to close temporarily in 1999, expressed satisfaction with the progress now being made. It highlighted the purchase of an old cinema, the Orpheus, on the island of Skopelos – acquired with the support of the Culture Ministry and the island’s municipality – as a major step forward which solves the center’s previous lack of a permanent home. Plans for the cinema’s refurbishment have been drawn up. The revamp is also expected to be completed soon. When ready, the new premises are expected to provide the center with all the equipment required by a modern photographic hub. For the current year, the center has scheduled a considerable number of events, several of which should figure as highlights when staged this summer. Four group exhibitions, all titled «The Family Spirit,» will be accompanied by a film tribute in conjunction with the Thessaloniki Film Museum and the annual Short Film Festival in Drama. Also being prepared is an audiovisual presentation comprising work by younger artists all under the age of 35, titled «Epafes,» in collaboration with foreign agencies and centers. Following the interruption of its activities, the center seems to have built a strong base for its future development, to include collaborations with European counterparts. Unlike before, activities are no longer limited to summer, but will take place throughout the year. The center’s director, Vangelis Ioakimidis, noted that children’s programs have been incorporated into the program to draw younger age groups.
