Article by Evita Stavrou
As I reflect on my journey in arts management and upcycling origami artistry, I am reminded of the profound impact that sustainable art can have on our communities and the environment. Over the past decade, I have had the privilege of organizing and leading cultural events that not only celebrate creativity but also promote sustainability and community engagement. My art, rooted in paper and natural materials, serves as a canvas for exploring themes of nature, architecture, and social justice.
My foray into art began with the simple act of crafting personalized paper gifts, but it soon evolved into a deeper exploration of the potential of paper as a medium for social change. Through projects addressing issues like gender equality and violence, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of art to spark conversations and inspire action.
But my journey is just one thread in the rich tapestry of sustainable art in Greece. Across the country, fellow artists and initiatives are pioneering innovative approaches to sustainability within their craft.
Take Salty Bag (https://saltybag.com/ ) for example. Their commitment to repurposing retired yacht sails into stylish, durable bags not only reduces waste but also showcases how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated with fashion. Their creations serve as a tangible reminder of the beauty and potential of upcycled materials.
Similarly, Think Sea (https://thinksea.gr/ ) is making waves with their inventive recycling of windsurf sails into trendy accessories. Their work not only highlights the creative possibilities of sustainable art but also raises awareness about the environmental impact of discarded materials.
Penelope Loom (https://penelopeloom.com/ ) stands as a beacon of tradition and innovation, reviving traditional weaving techniques with organic materials. Their dedication to sustainability is evident in every handcrafted piece, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage in a modern context.
And then there’s PHEE (https://phee.gr/ ), whose innovative use of seagrass to create biodegradable products underscores the harmony between nature and design. Their commitment to sustainability serves as a reminder that small changes in material choice can have a big impact on the environment.
But perhaps most inspiring is the collective endeavor of initiatives like 3Quarters (https://3quarters.design/ ), Rokani (https://rokani.gr/about-us/ )Â , and Shedia Art (https://shediahome.gr/?lang=en ). From transforming discarded fabrics into chic bags to repurposing wood waste into artistic furniture, these projects embody the spirit of collaboration and community impact. Together, they are not only preserving our rich artistic legacy but also advocating for environmental conservation and social inclusivity.
As I continue to explore the intersection of art and sustainability, I am filled with hope for the future. Together, we can ensure that our artistic endeavors not only reflect but actively contribute to a sustainable and equitable world.
I urge everyone to join us in this transformative movement—whether by supporting eco-friendly art, participating in workshops, or advocating for sustainability in our communities. Together, we can foster a legacy of environmental stewardship and cultural richness for generations to come.
Bio of the author
Evita Stavrou is an arts & cultural program manager, an upcycling and origami artist with over 10 years of experience in creative, independent event, curation, and project production. She has acted as a creative producer and event director for international cultural events, specializing in community-driven arts, music, events, and awareness campaigns. As a creative, her main medium is paper and natural materials, inspired by the beauty of nature, light and shadow, architecture, and geometry. Her journey into paper crafting began with personalized handmade gifts and has evolved into community engagement installations addressing societal challenges, with a focus on gender inequalities and gender-based violence.
