Evoked the timeless path of the voyager who leaves in order to return changed. Inspired by the mythic journey of Odysseus, the theme invited reflection on distance, memory, and the quiet pull of home. It spoke to all who have crossed seas—real or imagined—seeking knowledge, belonging, or the self that waits just beyond the horizon.
The journey outward became a testing of limits; the journey back, a weaving together of what was found and what was left behind. In this cycle of departure and return, the residency celebrated transformation, resilience, and the deep human need to trace the shape of our own odyssey—so that what we return to is familiar, yet seen with new eyes.
→ Welcome and introduction session:
Get to know each other
- Program briefing
- Introduction to the island's history and cultural roots
Environmental Center | 19:00
→ Opening presentations:
- “Odyssey” — Lecture by Prof. Spyros Kouvaras
- Program overview by Nina Kassianou
Gratsos Institution | 12:00
→ Optional: Participation in the 15th International Symposium on the Odyssey:
"The Homeric Epics in Greek Drama"
→ Optional: Participation in the 15th International Symposium on the Odyssey:
"The Homeric Epics in Greek Drama"
→ Welcome drink and informal gathering
Nina’s Garden | 21:00
→ First meeting/workshop with photographers and curators
Nina’s Garden | 11:00Wednesda
→ Presentation of works from the 2024 Residency
Gratsos Institution | 20:30
→ Presentation of works by the 2025 Participating Artists
Gratsos Institution | 21:00
→ Group dinner
BATIS Restaurant
→ Presentation: ZOETROPE Photobooks by Yiorgos Yiatromanolakis
Gratsos Institution | 20:30
→ Cheese and wine tasting
Gratsos Institution | 10:00
→ One-on-one (tête-à-tête) meetings with photographers and curators
Nina’s Garden | 11:30
→ Guided tour of the School of Homer archaeological site
→ Second meeting/workshop with photographers and curators
Exogi Village – Old Oil Factory
→ Optional: Explore Ithaca by following curated trails with the provided map.