Washington, DC –
Homme Gallery is set to host a captivating retrospective exhibition, “Where Islands Converge: A Journey from Lemnos to Manhattan,” showcasing the life and artistry of the late Greek-American artist, Constantine Abanavas.
Exploring the Life and Art of Constantine Abanavas
The exhibition provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Constantine Abanavas’ life, from his upbringing on the picturesque island of Lemnos, Greece, to the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of New York City. Abanavas, who passed away in 2008, left behind a legacy that is deeply rooted in the contrasts and contradictions that defined his existence.
The collection, spanning from 1945 to 2008, reflects the artist’s evolution, showcasing the interplay between rural and urban, traditional and modern, religious and secular, realist and abstract elements. This first posthumous showing delves into the complexity and diversity of Abanavas’ style, highlighting the beautiful contradictions that shaped both his life and the experiences of those straddling two distinct lands.
Constantine Abanavas: A Life Devoted to Art
Constantine Evangelos Abanavas, born in 1922, emerged as a prominent Greek-American artist whose journey began on the idyllic island of Lemnos, Greece. His artistic endeavors, primarily focused on oil painting, extended to include mosaics, copper, and plastic sculptures.
Facing economic challenges, Abanavas passionately dedicated his life to art, finding innovative ways to sustain his creative pursuits. His relocation to SoHo, New York, marked a pivotal moment in his career, allowing him to immerse himself entirely in his craft within the vibrant artists’ community.
Abanavas, a husband to Shirley, father of two, and grandfather of four, continued to create until his final days, leaving behind a body of work that encapsulates the essence of his dual cultural influences
Curated by Chris Abanavas, Constantine’s grandson, the exhibition offers a personal and intimate perspective on the convergence of two worlds through Constantine Abanavas’ masterpieces, which provide a unique perspective on the artist’s journey from Lemnos to Manhattan.
“My grandpa died when I was 12, and his art was a legacy that my dad and I always wanted to honor. For years, I’ve contemplated the best way to display his work, and after my dad passed away at the beginning of the pandemic, I felt even more of an impetus to finally do something with the art, both in my dad and grandpa’s honor. When I came across Homme Gallery and discussed the idea with owner Amir Browder—and saw how much it resonated with him, too—it seemed like the perfect way to start. This show is dedicated to both of them, and hopefully the first of many times I will be able to share my family’s story and heritage,” Chris Abanavas explained.
The exhibition will run from February 2 to February 10, 2024 at Home Gallery. The opening receptions are scheduled for February 2 and 3 at 7 PM at 2000 L Street, NW.
