The Municipal Art Gallery of Mykonos is hosting a captivating photography exhibition titled “The Spotlights on Mykonos: 1959-1979,” featuring the work of renowned photojournalist Christos Poulidis.
This September, the Municipal Art Gallery of Mykonos, in collaboration with Cosmosarte, presents a unique photography exhibition showcasing the work of legendary Greek photojournalist Christos Poulidis. Titled “The Spotlights on Mykonos: 1959-1979,” the exhibition will run from September 12 to 30, with the grand opening taking place on Saturday, September 14, at 8:30 p.m.
For nearly two decades, from 1959 to 1979, Poulidis was the sole professional photographer on the island, documenting its vibrant life and its rise to international fame. His images chronicle the essence of Mykonos in its golden era, as it transitioned from a quiet island into a playground for the world’s elite.
The exhibition features rare photographs of celebrated figures who visited Mykonos during this period, including Princess Soraya, Grace Kelly, Aristotle and Alexander Onassis, the Niarchos and Goulandris families, Maurice Béjart, Melina Mercouri, Jules Dassin, Dimitris Horn, and Stavros Xarchakos. These portraits offer an intimate look into the lives of cultural icons, political leaders, and business magnates who shaped the allure of the island and contributed to its global recognition.
Beyond its illustrious visitors, Poulidis also captured the local charm of Mykonos—its neoclassical architecture, scenic landscapes, and the daily life of its people. His lens immortalized a Mykonos that, while different from today, still retains the same magical appeal. The exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the island’s past, highlighting both its transformation and its enduring beauty.
Christos Poulidis (1926-2000) was not only a master of his craft but a visionary who foresaw the island’s potential. As the son of Greece’s first photojournalist, Petros Poulidis, Christos inherited a passion for storytelling through images. His work for numerous Greek and international news agencies ensured that Mykonos was constantly in the spotlight, contributing significantly to its mythos as a luxury destination.
Poulidis’ role in capturing the island’s evolution is undeniable. He dedicated his career to portraying Mykonos’ transformation, from its pristine early days to its status as a symbol of Greek tourism and global luxury. His images are a testament to the island’s unique fusion of history, glamour, and tradition.
This exhibition marks the beginning of a series of events celebrating Poulidis’ legacy and his profound impact on documenting Greece’s cultural and social history. Don’t miss this chance to step back in time and experience Mykonos as it was, through the eyes of one of Greece’s most important photojournalists.
The exhibition is free to the public, offering a valuable opportunity for locals and visitors alike to connect with the island’s rich history. For more information, visit the Municipal Art Gallery of Mykonos or follow Cosmosarte for updates on related events.
“The Spotlights on Mykonos: 1959-1979”, Christos Poulidis
Municipal Art Gallery of Mykonos
September 12 – 30, 2024
Opening: Saturday, September 14, 2024, 8:30 p.m.
Free Admission