On the evening of Wednesday, November 20, the proika exhibition opened to a crowd of eager guests at the Thematikos x MBO Tailors creative space in Cremorne.
A harmonious blend of artistry, history, and heartfelt connections, the event celebrated the physical and metaphorical heirlooms passed down through generations of Greek Australian families.
The exhibition, brought to life by photographer Demi Kromidellis, designer Maria Koutsoukos, and journalist Marianna Alepidis, delves deep into the essence of proika (προίκα)—a tradition symbolising the passing down of culture, memories, and cherished items.
Guests wandered through the gallery, marvelling at photographs taken in the homes of Greek immigrant families, paired with clothing crafted from reused materials and stories that celebrated the legacies of homeowners such as Thomi Kalavrianos, Panagiotia Mavraganis, and Christine Boursinos.
Produced by bespoke network Yitonia, led by Peter Giasoumi and Dean Kotsianis, the project was a collaborative masterpiece. Models Constance Gravina, Madalene Gravina, Cassie Patitsas, and Kristen Politis, along with behind-the-scenes support from Jonathan Valis, graphic designer Marie Petridis, and videographer Jorja Kavellaris, contributed to the event’s success.
From the moment doors opened, the room was abuzz with energy. Family, friends, and creatives mingled over traditional Greek mezze, Mastiha cocktails, desserts by Yiayia’s Glyka, and music curated by a DJ – Thematikos’ co-owner Con Pan.
Guests were invited to immerse themselves in nostalgia, with scents like “Pappou’s Garden”—a Thematikos creation with notes of tomato and basil—triggering vivid memories of childhood days spent in Greek grandparents’ gardens. Adding to the showcase were tailored pieces by Danny Douros, further celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship at the heart of the event.
proika merchandise, including tea towels and T-shirts, and specially marked editions of The Greek Herald, the project’s main media partner, added artistic flair to the space.
For attendees like Tiana Zaljebic and Julia Pritchard, both of mixed heritage, the project resonated deeply. Having once resisted Greek school as children, the women are now rediscovering their roots.
“My mother is currently delving into her own proika, unearthing forgotten doilies and contemplating their future,” Julia shared.
Tiana added, “I’m finding inspiration in these doilies. While I’m not keen on using them as traditional decor, I’m eager to repurpose them into something fresh and modern.”
As the gallery filled, Mr Kotsianis officially began proceedings, reflecting on Yitonia’s mission: “What we have been doing for about 12 months now is facilitating people to do what they do best, providing the platform, working with people with passion, brands, advice, and just making things happen so nice.”
Co-producer Mr Giasoumi followed, highlighting the unexpected reciprocity in their work: “We are proud of the relationship that we’ve built with our elders. You know, we thought when we would go into their house, we would brighten their day up, but the opposite is true too. They brightened our day with their generosity, their stories, their humour.”
Photographer Demi shared insights into her creative process of “capturing the rawness of homes and heirlooms with a contemporary reinterpretation,” and using innovative techniques like hand-printing photographs onto light-sensitive paper.
Designer Maria expressed her passion for preserving Greek heritage: “proika is dedicated to the Greek migrants, and it depicts the legacy and raises the question of how we, as the future generation, as Greeks, can preserve and carry on their legacy.”
Journalist Marianna moved the audience with her emotional address, recalling the collective passion of the project team: “We all have a love for capturing the stories of the people that came before us, whether that be through words, through photography, through design. Our heritage is an endless source of inspiration and passion. We saw the incredible treasure troves of memories these wonderful women have cultivated and maintained.”
Finally, homeowner Mrs Kalavrianos delivered a heartfelt speech in Greek, thanking the parents of the project’s collaborators for raising such remarkable individuals. Referring to the team as her “Charlie’s Angels,” she said with a smile, “Can you imagine they spent six whole hours with me in my home… there are no words to describe how happy I am,” prompting laughter and applause from the audience.
The evening concluded on a high note, with guests continuing to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, music, and community spirit. The event was an overwhelming success, with attendees leaving inspired by the beautiful storytelling and the rich cultural history on display.
The proika exhibition not only struck a nostalgic chord with older generations, but also sparked meaningful conversations among younger Greek Australians. It was particularly poignant to witness the reflections of Greek youth on the lives and legacies of migrants. Their perspectives offered a refreshing take on heritage—embracing tradition while seeking modern ways to preserve and reimagine it.
The proika exhibition will now be on reduced display at ‘the garazi’ (16 Cubbit St, Cremorne), for the following four weekends until Sunday, December 15.
