Yorgos Lanthimos: A Photographic Homecoming

Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos has returned to Athens, where he is showcasing his artistic evolution through a new photography exhibition titled “Yorgos Lanthimos: Photography.” The exhibition opens at the Onassis Stegi, a prominent art venue in Athens, and features a collection of moody black-and-white prints that reflect his unique perspective on Greece. The exhibition includes images ranging from a remote fishing village on the island of Ikaria, where his grandmother grew up, to striking contrasts such as a coffin next to a mop in an undertaker’s office. A notable piece is a portrait of his rescue dog, Vyronas, which serves as the exhibition's poster image.

New York Times

Lanthimos, who gained international acclaim with his film “Dogtooth,” returned to Greece in 2021 after a decade in London. His time abroad allowed him to develop as a filmmaker, culminating in his recognition as one of cinema's leading auteurs. His recent works, including “Poor Things,” “Kinds of Kindness,” and “Bugonia,” have further solidified his status, with “Bugonia” nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

New York Times

In a recent interview, Lanthimos expressed a desire to reconnect with his roots and appreciate Greece from a fresh perspective. He noted, “There’s this feeling in Greece that everything abroad is better. I needed to get some distance from where I grew up and see it in a different way, to love it for what it is, and find it beautiful because of what it is.” This sentiment underpins the thematic essence of his photographic work, which juxtaposes the sublime and the absurd.

New York Times

While Lanthimos's work has been celebrated, some critics argue that his portrayal of Greece may reinforce stereotypes of the country as a place of melancholy and absurdity. These dissenting voices suggest that such representations could overshadow the diverse and vibrant aspects of contemporary Greek life.

New York Times

The exhibition has garnered attention not only for its artistic merit but also for its commentary on Greek identity. The Onassis Stegi has highlighted the significance of Lanthimos's return to Athens, emphasizing how his work reflects a broader narrative about the relationship between artists and their homelands.

New York Times

As Lanthimos continues to explore his artistic roots, he is expected to engage in more projects that delve into Greek culture and identity. His ongoing success in film and photography suggests that he will remain a pivotal figure in the discourse surrounding contemporary Greek art.

New York Times

• “There’s this feeling in Greece that everything abroad is better,” — Yorgos Lanthimos, Filmmaker

New York Times

• “I needed to get some distance from where I grew up and see it in a different way,” — Yorgos Lanthimos, Filmmaker

New York Times

Through this exhibition, Yorgos Lanthimos not only showcases his artistic journey but also invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of Greece, blending personal narrative with broader cultural commentary.

New York Times