The contemporary art exhibition Encounters is conceived as an open invitation to dialogue between contemporary artistic creation and the local community of Leonidio.

Presented as an independent section of Melitzazz Festival 2026, under the festival’s theme Communities, the exhibition is rooted in encounters between artists and local people, including craftspeople, makers, associations, and community groups who shape the everyday life and collective memory of the region.

Through shared experiences, exchange, and the collaborative exploration of practices and narratives, original artworks emerge as traces of these relationships. Materials, stories, gestures, and lived experiences are transformed into contemporary artistic expressions, offering new ways of engaging with local heritage. Each artwork is accompanied by a filmed interview with the participating local resident, creating a parallel narrative that strengthens the connection between art, personal experience, and place.

The exhibition features artists Dimitra Konstantinidi, Haris Rigalos, and Stratis Tavlaridis, who developed their works through collaborations with individuals and organisations from the local community.

Dimitra Konstantinidi worked with Elisavet Rodopoulou of Tsakonian Textiles, Haris Rigalos collaborated with Christos Nikoloulias in his traditional tinsmith workshop, while Stratis Tavlaridis worked with the Tsakonian Archives. These collaborations formed the starting point for the artistic process and shaped the works presented in the exhibition.

Encounters present Leonidio as a vibrant space of creativity and exchange, where art becomes a means of connection, understanding, and co-creation with the community.

Encounters is supported by NEON through its annual Grants Scheme.