THE exhibition space of the Zoumboulakis Galleries and the architectural practice of Zoumboulakis Architects are housed at 20 Kolonaki Square. These unified and high-ceiling premises, were acquired in 1973 by Tassos and Peggy Zoumboulakis due to the need of sculptor Takis to exhibit works of large dimensions, thus extending the activity of the gallery, which had been operating at 7 Kriezotou Str, since 1966. The change in the art of that period and the strong trend of exhibiting installations dictated the need for different venues for the exhibition of the works. In the autumn of 1974, Takis’s historic exhibition officially inaugurated the new premises.
From then on, the gallery has hosted and continues to host very important exhibitions by established Greek and foreign artists. It is rightly considered one of Greece’s most historic galleries and has been associated with names such as Moralis, Tsarouchis, Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas and others, while the exhibitions’ list includes names such as Giorgio De Chirico, Les Lalannes, Robert Rauschenberg, Max Ernst, Man Ray, René Magritte, Fassianos, Akrithakis, Pavlos, and Kessanlis. The venue’s history has also been marked with collaborations with galleries of world standing, such as Alexander Iolas, Denise René, Leo Castelli, Beyeler, Gemini G.E.L., and Marian Goodman.
The most recent renovation was completed in autumn 2018 and its design was carried out by Zoumboulakis Architects.
The premises extend onto two levels. On the first level the visitor finds the exhibition space, the architectural practice, and a sun-lit meeting-room leading to a small, but carefully designed garden. The layout of the first level, incorporating a system of sliding glass partitions, provides the exhibition area with great flexibility, so that it can be easily adapted to the particular needs of the artists. On the second level one can find the utility and storage spaces for the two companies, along with a spacious art depot consisting of sliding panels.
The exhibition space has been equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, as well as with a flexible lighting system which provides a wide range of possibilities in the presentation of exhibitions, installations and events. The meeting-room has all the necessary equipment for holding teleconferences and presentations.
