Handmade art objects exhibition at the Consulate General by Michael Karras

On November 18, the Consulate General of Greece in New York inaugurated an exhibition of handmade art objects by designer Michael Karras, at the Consulate’s exhibition Hall.

Michael Karras is a Greek-born artist who lives and works in Piraeus. He studied graphics, visual arts, and design and he specializes in decoration and industrial design. He is also a member of the Greek Chamber of Fine Arts. His work with the New York Consulate included miniature sculptures, paintings, design objects, jewelry and the new lucky charm of 2020. Many of these art objects can be purchased from selected points in Greece, but the New York exhibition was his first attempt to introduce modern Greek design to the American audience as November 18th to November 22nd is the NYC Jewelry Week.

The artist’s basic inspiration comes from geometry and selective abstraction. Modern materials and special elements are transformed into unique pieces of art that are creatively bonded with semiprecious stones and modern materials. Aluminum and glass come together to create miniature sculptures while plexiglass and silk cord become a modern children's toy. His New Year lucky charms in the shape of a pomegranate, in particular, are a beautiful combination of modern lines with classic forms. Since antiquity, the pomegranate has been a symbol representing life, regeneration, and abundance.

Greek art has a prolific history of jewelry making. Years of experience passing from generation to generation have reached modern times and famous Greek jewelry companies known for their modern touch and antiquity-inspired designs have been present in the United States for decades. The Consulate General of Greece in New York works towards promoting Greek design and acquainting the American audience with the concept of Greek –and modern Greek- elegance.

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