In a celebration of artistic talent and cultural heritage, the Cinematic Club of Monemvasia is poised to honor the renowned sculptor Michalis Kassis, famed for creating the bust of the esteemed poet Yiannis Ritsos. This momentous event is scheduled for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM, taking place in the historic Old Primary School of Nomia.
The program features an engaging lineup that promises to captivate attendees. The evening will commence with a warm welcome and coordination by Elisavet Papadopoulou, a teacher from the Eastern Thessaloniki Educational Board. Following this, Dina Lekka, an enthusiastic philologist, will present an insightful lecture titled “The Multidimensional Work of Michalis Kassis.” The artist himself, Michalis Kassis, will also take the stage to share a brief greeting with the audience. The program will further include a screening of the documentary “LALOUDA (ROCK)” by Yiannis Kassis, enriching the cultural experience. Afterward, a discussion with the director will facilitate an interactive exchange with the viewers.
Entry to this exceptional event is free, inviting all to partake in the celebration of artistry and community.
About Michalis Kassis
Born in Palairos of Messenia, Michalis Kassis has made a substantial impact in the world of sculpture. He pursued studies in sculpture, ceramics, plasterwork, and bronze casting at the School of Fine Arts. For over 28 years, he led the workshops at the National Archaeological Museum, where his expertise flourished. His sculptures can be found in numerous public spaces across Greece, including cities such as Eretria, Sparta, and Hlioupoli, many of which are monumental in scale, reaching heights between 3 and 6.5 meters.
One of his standout works is situated at the entrance of the major stadium in Houston, Texas, portraying an athlete in a larger-than-life representation that symbolizes the essence of Greek heritage. Kassis’s artistry extends beyond Greece, with smaller works also showcased across the United States and Kyrgyzstan, in addition to being featured in the National Gallery and other cultural institutions.
An accomplished portraitist, Kassis has created several noteworthy busts, including those of Yiannis Ritsos and prominent figures like Kostas Davakis and Nikolaos Politis. His preference for utilizing local materials, especially the robust black Mani stone, further highlights his commitment to the regional artistic identity.
As this event approaches, it presents a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with the artistic endeavors of Michalis Kassis while enjoying a rich evening filled with cultural reflection and community spirit.