Melbourne Museum and Greece’s National Archaeological Museum have collaborated to bring the new ‘Open Horizons: Ancient Greek Journeys’ exhibition to Victoria from Saturday, April 23.
The exhibition was made possible following negotiations between former Victorian Health Minister, Jenny Mikakos, and Greece’s Culture Minister, Lina Mendoni.
In a comment to The Greek Herald, Ms Mikakos said she’s “so excited that Minister Mendoni is coming to Melbourne” for the launch of the exhibition.
“She generously agreed to meet with me during her first week as a Minister when she would’ve been incredibly busy,” Ms Mikakos said.
“She was very enthusiastic at our meeting about an antiquities exhibition from Greece coming to Melbourne for the first time ever. I think Australians, and especially Greek Australians, should be very grateful to the Minister that she has made this exhibition reality.
“Whilst I haven’t seen her schedule, I would love the opportunity to thank her personally for delivering on her promise.”
The exhibition will explore Greece’s rich history through trade, spirituality and art, offering a window into the ideas and culture that have permeated into modern times and continue to include culture, politics and sport.
Displayed for the first time in Australia, ‘Open Horizons,’ will showcase 44 treasures from the Early Bronze age through to the Roman period, introducing a new generation of visitors to the history of Greece.
The exhibition is being funded in the 2020-21 Victorian Budget.
“The Andrews Government is proud to bring this exclusive exhibition to Victoria, providing a fantastic opportunity for visitors to learn more about the stories of Victoria’s Greek community, while exploring antiquities that are visiting Australia for the very first time,” Steve Dimopoulos MP said.
The CEO of Museums Victoria, Lynley Crosswell, added that they are excited to be collaborating with the National Archaeological Museum.
“This captivating exhibition will invite visitors to explore the cross-cultural connections that contributed to the formation of Ancient Greece,” Ms Crosswell concluded.
‘Open Horizon: Ancient Greek Journeys’ opens on Saturday, April 23 at Melbourne Museum.
