National Museum of Contemporary Art - Athens

The National Museum of Contemporary Art in Athens (EMST) is a fundamental institution for the Greek and international art scene, located in the iconic building of the old Fix brewery in the Koukaki district. Founded in 2000, the museum opened its doors to the public at its current location in 2016, after years of traveling exhibitions hosted in various locations in Athens, such as the Athens Conservatory and the Athens Concert Hall. The museum’s history is marked by the transformation of a 20th-century industrial building into a modern and cutting-edge exhibition space. The Fix building, once a symbol of the Greek brewing industry, was renovated to house collections of contemporary art, respecting its original architecture and integrating new elements to create a space that reflects both tradition and innovation. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by prominent Greek and international artists, with a particular emphasis on conceptual art, installations, photography, video art, and new technologies. Among the represented artists are Jannis Kounellis, Chryssa, Gary Hill, Costas Tsoclis, and Stephen Antonakos. Each exhibited work not only represents a significant contribution to contemporary art, but also invites reflection on the social, political, and cultural issues of our time. One of the most striking works in the collection is “Nisyros” by Panos Kokkinias, a hyperrealistic photograph capturing a group of tourists gathered around a volcanic crater on the island of Nisyros. This work, created by combining thousands of digital photographs, explores the relationship between man and nature, evoking a sense of nostalgia and introspection. Another impactful work is “Akropolis Redux—The Director’s Cut” by Kendell Geers, an installation of barbed wire and security fences that brings to mind the divisions and violence of modern society. A significant aspect of the museum is its ability to adapt and innovate. For example, it received a major donation from the D. Daskalopoulos collection, further enriching its collection with works by world-renowned artists such as Paul McCarthy, Ana Mendieta, and Annette Messager. This donation has allowed the museum to expand its repertoire and offer the public an even broader view of contemporary art.