Samos is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean that, at its closest point, is situated less than 2 kilometres from the coastline of Türkiye. It is described by many as a ‘magical place’, a place of nature, of calm, of beautiful blue seas and rugged mountains, of greenery and beaches, a place of spirituality that invokes a feeling of peace in people, many of whom feel compelled to stay. It is also a place of arrival and of refuge. Its location so close to Türkiye has meant that in recent years it has become known internationally for its role in the arrival of people seeking asylum in Greece and the broader European Union.
This exhibition explores stories from the island through photographs collected between 2018 and 2024 and interviews with people whose lives have become a part of the story of the island. Whether they moved to Samos for love, for recovery, to claim refuge, to offer support to people on the move, to re-engage with their family roots or simply to visit this beautiful place, we explore how their lives have intersected, evolved, and intertwined over weeks, months, years and decades.
Join us for an evening's discussion focussing on questions and stories of displacement in Europe and bringing different perspectives about the island, borders and the lives that intersected there.
This event is organised by Gemma Bird, Andrew Foreman & Simone van den Akker. With thanks to all those who shared their time and stories with us, and to Samos Volunteers and Amnesty International for collaborating with us. We look forward to welcoming everyone for a walk through the many lives of Samos.
ROMANTSO, Anaxagora 3-5, Athens, 10552
Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 November
OPEN DISCUSSION: Tuesday November 5th at 19.00
Opening Hours: 10.00 - 22.00
