DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art

The Deste Foundation, located in Athens, is a reference institution in the contemporary art scene. Founded in 1983 by Greek-Cypriot entrepreneur Dakis Joannou, the foundation quickly established itself as a meeting point for artists, curators, and art enthusiasts. The main mission of the Deste Foundation is to promote understanding of contemporary art through exhibitions, publications, and special projects that explore emerging trends and current cultural dynamics. Dakis Joannou, the founder, is known to be one of the most important collectors of contemporary art in the world. His private collection, which includes works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Maurizio Cattelan, and Takashi Murakami, is largely housed by the foundation. Joannou has always believed in the power of art as a tool for communication and social reflection, and the Deste Foundation reflects this vision through a dynamic and innovative exhibition program. The name “Deste” comes from the Greek verb “δέστε”, which means “to look”. This name emphasizes the foundation’s goal of inviting the public to observe and reflect on art and the world around us. The main headquarters of the foundation is located in a modernist building in the Nea Ionia district, an industrial area of Athens that has undergone a significant transformation thanks to the foundation’s influence. One of the most memorable exhibitions organized by the foundation is “Jeff Koons: A Retrospective”, which offered a comprehensive overview of the work of the American artist, famous for his mirror-polished stainless steel sculptures and references to pop culture. This exhibition attracted thousands of visitors and solidified the reputation of the Deste Foundation as an internationally renowned exhibition space. Another significant project is the “DESTE Prize”, established in 1999. This biennial prize is intended for Greek artists or residents of Greece who stand out for their innovative practice and contribution to contemporary art. The winner of the prize receives financial recognition and the opportunity to exhibit their work at the foundation, providing an important platform for visibility and professional growth. The foundation is also known for its commitment to publishing catalogs and monographs documenting exhibitions and special projects. These texts are valuable tools for scholars, curators, and art enthusiasts, offering critical insights and historical contexts on the works displayed. The publications of the Deste Foundation are appreciated for their quality and their contribution to the dissemination of knowledge on contemporary art. Over the years, the Deste Foundation has collaborated with numerous cultural institutions and international museums, such as the New Museum in New York and the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens. These collaborations have expanded the foundation’s activities and created synergies between different artistic communities. One of the most interesting anecdotes regarding the foundation is related to the figure of Maurizio Cattelan, an artist known for his irreverent and provocative approach. During one of his exhibitions at the Deste Foundation, Cattelan installed a sculpture depicting a hanged donkey, one of his most controversial works. The installation sparked a heated public and media debate, demonstrating the power of art to provoke deep reflections and intense emotional reactions.