“High Tides”
Pylos International Sculpture Symposium
Drawing upon Heraclitus quote :
” The sea is eternal and all the earth is sea”
OVERVIEW
The “High Tides” International Sculpture Symposium emerges as a transformative cultural event, drawing inspiration from the cyclical rhythm of tides and Heraclitus’s notion of cosmic flow, encapsulated in the phrase, “the sea is eternal and all earth is sea.”
Proposed to take place in the majestic backdrop of the iconic fort Niocastro of Pylos in southwestern Peloponnese, it aims to attract international attention, whilst adding to the cultural capital of the territory which is mainly known for the world famous Costa Navarino Luxury Resort.
Nevertheless, “High Tides” promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring symposium, bringing together artists from around the world at this iconic location. Planned to take place during the Summer of 2025, it seeks to transcend the boundaries of contemporary sculpture, fostering a global dialogue on social justice, equity, and human rights. Its creative objective, is to delve into the perpetual flux of the natural world and its profound interconnectedness with human existence through the medium of stone in a contemporary sculptural approach.
The title, poetic and allegoric, pays homage to the Greek philosopher Heraclitus and his profound observation on the eternal nature of the sea. Just as Heraclitus saw the sea as a symbol of universal flux and interconnectedness, so too does this symposium aim to explore the enduring themes of change, continuity, and unity through the lens of contemporary sculpture. As artists will gather to create their works inspired by this phrase, they will dive into the sea’s timeless depths, reflecting on its eternal presence in shaping our world and our lives. Through their creations, they echo Heraclitus’s timeless wisdom, reminding us that, indeed, “sea is eternal and all earth is sea.” The tidal metaphor provides a comforting rhythm to our emotions, reminding us of life’s cyclical nature. This concept provides a rich conceptual basis for artists, blending the comfort of regularity with the wisdom of impermanence.
LOCATION
Pylos, a town rich in cultural heritage dating back to the prehistory, host numerous historic sites including the well preserved Ottoman fort, known as the Niokastro which has been a major defensive structure of its time and a protagonist of the Navarino Battleship during the Greek revolution. Its walls once surrounding a thriving town and its community, nowadays host a museum and cultural space for exhibitions. Niocastro, dating back to the 16th century, has witnessed countless battles both under the Ottoman and Venetian rule over the centuries. Today it still stands as a symbol of resilience and continuity, mirroring the symposium’s messages of hope and survival.
Additionally, Pylos is surrounded by significant landmarks such as the Gialova Lagoon, a vital wetland and bird sanctuary, the stunning old castle of Navarino hanging on the cliff above it, and prehistoric ruins such the ancient Palace of Nestor, a key archaeological site from the Mycenaean era. Right against the fort there is also the iconic island of Sphacteria, a place of great historic significance in naval battles of the past. These unique locations offer an enriched cultural and natural context, further enhancing the symposium’s setting, providing artists with a wealth of inspiration.
Thus, “High Tides” is not just an artistic gathering; it is a movement towards a more just and equitable world, using the transformative power of sculpture to shine a light on the most pressing issues of our time. The title “High Tides” is profoundly relevant in today’s world, reflecting on the many climatic and geopolitical crises affecting coastal communities, and the biosphere in the Mediterranean.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT & RATIONALE
The Battle of Navarino, which took place in 1827 in the bay near Pylos, was a decisive naval engagement that marked a turning point in the Greek War of Independence and European geopolitical fate in extent. The battle saw a coalition of British, French, and Russian forces defeat the Ottoman and Egyptian fleets, leading to significant shifts in the political landscape of the region. The waters around Pylos, rich with historical shipwrecks from this era, are an open museum of human loss and conflict.
In a tragic parallel to these historic shipwrecks, the Mediterranean Sea has recently become a graveyard for countless refugees and migrants seeking a better life. Sunken boats and lost lives have transformed these waters into silent witnesses of human tragedy and resilience. The symposium being held in Pylos, further aims to create a space for reflection on these continuing crises. This theme encourages artists to elaborate on issues of displacement, loss, and hope, creating works that evoke global concerns.
At large, the symposium aims to become a platform for discussing and addressing pressing global issues through the universal language of art. According to UNESCO, art and culture play a crucial role in promoting social cohesion and dialogue among diverse communities (UNESCO, 2021). By focusing on social justice, equity, and human rights, the symposium seeks to foster a deeper understanding and commitment to these values among participants and audiences alike. Art’s ability to cross cultural and linguistic barriers makes it an ideal medium for promoting these critical discussions.