Cine Urbanography, This is Athens – 02 May 2024

Introduction

In the sepia-tinted years of the mid-20th century, the Greek city was a bustling jar of life and culture, at once ancient and post-modern, traditional and emergent.

It pulsated with stories and experiences that were ripe for capturing, and it was cinema that took on the formidable task of mirroring the urban saga of Athens during the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

Fast forward to the present, and the Cine Urbanography program stands as a beacon of the past, illuminating the city’s vivid history through the lens of film and the brushstrokes of art.

Life Throughout the Ages

Life in Greek cities during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s underwent significant changes as Greece transitioned from a predominantly rural society to a more urbanized and modernized one. Here’s a glimpse into what life was like during each of these decades:

1950s

1. Post-War Reconstruction: The 1950s marked a period of post-war reconstruction and economic development in Greece. Cities were bustling with construction projects aimed at rebuilding infrastructure damaged during World War II.
2. Urbanization: The 1950s saw a significant influx of people from rural areas into cities in search of better economic opportunities. This migration contributed to the growth of urban centers and the expansion of city populations.
3. Traditional Lifestyle: Despite the urbanization trend, many aspects of traditional Greek life persisted in cities during the 1950s. Family and community ties remained strong, and traditional Greek customs and values continued to shape daily life.
4. Cultural Renaissance: The 1950s also witnessed a cultural renaissance in Greece, with a revival of interest in Greek literature, music, and arts. This period saw the emergence of influential Greek artists, writers, and musicians who contributed to the country’s cultural identity.
5. Limited Modernization: While there were signs of modernization, such as the introduction of new technologies and consumer goods, Greece still lagged behind other Western countries in terms of industrialization and urban development during this decade.

1960s

1. Economic Growth: The 1960s marked a period of rapid economic growth and industrialization in Greece, fueled by government investment and foreign aid. This growth led to increased urbanization and the expansion of cities.
2. Modernization: Greek cities experienced significant modernization during the 1960s, with the construction of new infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings. Modern amenities such as electricity, plumbing, and telephones became more widespread in urban areas.
3. Cultural Flourishing: The 1960s were a time of cultural flourishing in Greece, with the rise of popular music, cinema, and literature. Greek artists and intellectuals played a prominent role in shaping the country’s cultural landscape, both domestically and internationally.
4. Political Turmoil: The 1960s were also marked by political instability in Greece, with a series of coups and political crises. This period saw the rise of left-wing and right-wing political movements, as well as student protests and demonstrations.
5. Social Changes: Social attitudes began to shift during the 1960s, particularly among the younger generation. There was greater openness to new ideas and lifestyles, as well as increased participation in political activism and social movements

1970s

1. Military Dictatorship: The early 1970s were characterized by the rule of a military dictatorship in Greece, which lasted from 1967 to 1974. During this period, civil liberties were restricted, and political dissent was suppressed.
2. Economic Challenges: The 1970s brought economic challenges to Greece, including high inflation, unemployment, and economic stagnation. These difficulties had a significant impact on urban life, leading to social unrest and discontent.
3. Cultural Expression: Despite the political and economic challenges, the 1970s saw a vibrant cultural scene in Greek cities, with the emergence of new artistic movements and cultural expressions. Greek cinema, music, and literature flourished during this period.
4. Return to Democracy: In 1974, Greece transitioned back to democracy following the fall of the military dictatorship. This period of political change brought renewed hope for democratic governance and social progress.
5. European Integration: Towards the end of the 1970s, Greece began its journey towards European integration, culminating in its accession to the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1981. This marked a new chapter in Greek history, with increased ties to the wider European community and opportunities for economic development.

The Cultural Mirror: Art and Film in the 50s, 60s, and 70s

The vibrant tapestry of Greek life in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s did not only reflect in the bustling streets and changing landscapes but also vividly in the realm of art and film. These mediums became the mirrors of society, reflecting the era’s soul and narrating Greece’s metamorphosis through visual and narrative storytelling.

1950s: A Canvas of Recovery and Hope

In the post-war era of the 1950s, art and film served as beacons of recovery, embodying the resilience and hope of a nation rebuilding. Greek cinema, in particular, began to gain recognition, with films capturing the raw emotions and realities of life amidst recovery. The era also witnessed a revival in traditional Greek art forms, as artists sought to reconnect with their cultural roots while navigating the new post-war identity.

1960s: Expression of Modernization and Turbulence

The 60s brought a wave of modernization that was vividly captured in the era’s art and film. This was a time of bold expressions, with artists and filmmakers experimenting with new styles and themes to depict the rapid urbanization and cultural shifts. The decade’s political turmoil and social movements also found their way into the art scenes, making cinemas and galleries arenas for political and social discourse.

1970s: A Period of Defiance and Cultural Renaissance

During the challenging times of the 70s, art and film became mediums of defiance against the political suppression of the military dictatorship. Uncensored expressions surfaced through underground movements, with artists and filmmakers using their work to critique the regime and advocate for freedom and democracy. It was also a period of cultural renaissance, as the return to democracy ushered in a new wave of creativity and openness in the arts, reconnecting Greece with the global art scene.

Through the decades, the evolution of Greek art and cinema not only narrated the country’s historical and social changes but also played a pivotal role in molding its cultural and national identity. The stories told and the images captured in these mediums continue to resonate, offering a timeless window into Greece’s spirited past.

Cine Urbanography: A Visual Storytelling Adventure for Kids

Cine Urbanography takes children on a thrilling adventure back in time to explore the rich tapestry of Greek urban life through the lens of cinema and visual arts.

This unique program, available exclusively in the Greek language, bridges the gap between historical narratives and creative expression, inviting children to engage in a dialogue that intertwines visual arts with the magic of film.

Participants will immerse themselves in a cinematic voyage through the bustling streets and quaint alleys of past decades, as captured in iconic films of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. By exploring sounds and images that defined those eras, they will gain a deeper appreciation for film as a reflection of urban life and its evolution.

Additionally, through encounters with various art forms—paintings, installations, and posters—students will discover how cinema emerged as a vibrant facet of popular culture.

At the heart of this experience lies the opportunity for children to become storytellers themselves. Guided by the works of leading creators like Robiros Manthoulis and under the expert supervision of Christina Botsou, EPMAS museum educator, and Marina Tomazani, EPMAS curator, the young participants will capture moments from their contemporary urban experiences in improvised film frames.

This hands-on approach will not only enhance their film literacy but also introduce them to basic principles of cinematic storytelling.

More Information About the Event

• Target Age Group: Children 6-12 years old
• Featured Work: Robiros Manthoulis – Face to Face (1966)
• Design: Christina Botsou, EPMAS museum educator
• Conducted by: Marina Tomazani, EPMAS curator – Christina Botsou, EPMAS museum educator
• Reservation: Required. First come, first served basis.

Cine Urbanography transcends being merely an educational programme; it serves as a portal to the past, beckoning the younger generation to perceive their city through a new lens and to embrace the timeless allure of Greek cinema and urban landscapes. For additional information, please refer to the link provided below.