Guests, dignitaries and community leaders gathered at NSW Parliament on Tuesday evening for the official opening of ‘Ode to Freedom,’ a powerful exhibition by artist Angela Kiki Konstantinopoulou marking 200 years since the heroic Exodus of Messolonghi.
Held in the historic Fountain Court and presented by AHEPA Sydney & NSW under the auspices of the Consulate General of Greece in Sydney, the event brought together political representatives, clergy, diplomats and members of the Greek Australian community to reflect on one of the most defining moments of the Greek War of Independence.
Master of ceremonies Panayioti Diamandis opened proceedings by acknowledging the significance of the occasion, describing the Exodus of Messolonghi as “one of the most profound and symbolic moments of the Greek War of Independence,” when, after years of siege, defenders chose “to die fighting rather than be taken as slaves.”
Among those in attendance were NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper, NSW Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos, NSW Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis, MP Eleni Petinos, MP Mark Coure, as well as Consul General of Greece in Sydney George Skemperis and His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis, representing His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia.
In his address, Mr Kamper described the exhibition as a fitting tribute to a story that transcends national history.
“It is not only Greek history. It is a universal story about courage, sacrifice and the human desire for freedom,” he said, noting the symbolic importance of hosting the exhibition within Parliament House, “because our democracy exists because of ideals first shaped in ancient Greece.”
Drawing on personal reflection, the Minister spoke of the emotional connection the artworks evoke, particularly in depicting figures such as Athanasios Diakos, and praised the exhibition for bridging past and present. He also highlighted the shared military history between Greece and Australia, referencing works that depict joint struggles during wartime.
A moving message was delivered by Bishop Iakovos, who conveyed the blessings of Archbishop Makarios and reflected on the spiritual dimension of the commemoration. He described the Exodus not as a defeat, but as “a victory of the spirit,” emphasising that the heroes of 1821 “fought not only with weapons, but with faith and an unwavering longing for liberty.”
Consul General Mr Skemperis placed the historical moment in broader context, noting that by 1826 the Greek War of Independence had reached a critical point.
“This was the moment where everything seemed lost,” he said, describing Messolonghi as a symbol of endurance. “When everything is lost, we still need to endure if we have the values of freedom, self-determination and dignity in our hearts.”
The evening also featured the unveiling of a portrait of Ekaterini “Catherine” Cramer, recognised as the first Greek woman to settle in Australia. The work was formally revealed by Steve Kamper alongside artist Angela Kiki Konstantinopoulou, marking a poignant moment within the broader exhibition.
Cramer’s remarkable life journey from Greece to New South Wales in the 19th century was honoured as part of the program, symbolising the early foundations of the Greek presence in Australia and the enduring contribution of Greek women across generations.
Artist Angela Kiki Konstantinopoulou spoke of the nine-year journey behind Ode to Freedom, describing the exhibition as the result of extensive research and reflection. She expressed hope that the works would inspire younger generations to explore Greek history and identity.
“Identity is not defined by the place of your birth, but by the flame we carry within us,” she said.
Closing the formalities, AHEPA Sydney & NSW President Nia Gitsas emphasised the exhibition’s contemporary relevance, noting that Messolonghi remains “a timeless symbol of sacrifice, dignity and the resilience of the human spirit.”
She encouraged attendees to reflect on the values of courage and freedom not only in history, but in everyday life and community building.
Following the speeches, guests viewed the exhibition, which spans the corridors of Parliament House and includes depictions of key figures and moments from the Greek War of Independence, as well as works highlighting the historical connections between Greece and Australia.
‘Ode to Freedom’ will remain on display at NSW Parliament until late May, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with a defining chapter of Greek history through a contemporary artistic lens.
