PRESENTATION: Tea Time I

In English culture, “tea time” is a traditional moment to enjoy tea, often with light snacks. It carries both practical importance and cultural significance, representing a long-standing custom of relaxation and sociability. Tea time has its roots in the 19th century, particularly in Victorian England. It offered a pause in the day for socializing, relaxation, and refreshment.

By Dimitris Lempesis
Photo: dreamideamachine Archive

Tea time is often associated with politeness, hospitality, and community. It’s a moment to gather, converse, and enjoy a shared experience. In modern contexts, “tea time” can simply refer to a casual break to have tea and light snacks, regardless of time. It may not follow traditional practices but still carries a sense of pause and enjoyment. Also, tea time symbolizes taking a break from daily routines to enjoy a quiet, reflective moment or engage in lighthearted social interaction. Beyond its literal meaning, “tea time” has become a phrase that can metaphorically suggest moments of calm, shared experiences, or even humorously signify an anticipated break in any activity. The Group exhibition  “Tea Time I” invites viewers to explore the cultural and symbolic significance of tea through the lens of 12 contemporary Greek artists. Curated to celebrate the diverse narratives embedded within this universal ritual, the exhibition showcases a variety of media and themes, ranging from personal memory to broader cultural and historical contexts. Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Embroidery, and Ceramics coexist in a harmonious dialogue, inviting the viewer to explore a world composed of images, memories, dreams, desires, colors, and scents inspired by literature, poetry, science fiction, and childhood imagination.  Each work tells a unique story, encouraging us to create personal narratives and reflect on hospitality, communication, and human connection. “Tea Time I” is a celebration of togetherness and introspection, brought vividly to life by the creative voices of contemporary Greek artists. It offers visitors a fresh perspective on a time-honored ritual while reflecting on its relevance in today’s interconnected world. While exploring “Tea Time I”, visitors can choose artworks in various sizes and price ranges, as well as artist-designed bags, perfect for themselves, friends, or loved ones ahead of the Christmas season.

Participating   Artists:  Annalina Fotopoulou, Andromachi Giannopoulou, Itsmi, Katerina Kokkinaki, Alexandros Maganiotis, Dimitris Lempesis, Ifigeneia Sdoukou, Sara Sehnaoui, Lina Theodorou, Nefeli Tsantaki, Grigoria Vryttia, Maria Zygomala

Photo: Andromachi Giannopoulou, Rage, 2020, Pencil-ink on paper, 17.5 Χ 14.5 cm, © & Courtesy the artist

Info: Curator: Efi Michalarou, dreamideamachine Resident, 55-59 Kolonou Str., 2^nd floor, Metaxourgeio, Athens, Greece, Duration: 18/11-15/12/2024, Days & Hours: Mon (18/11/24) 16:00-22:00, 19/11-15/12: Daily by appointment only (+30 2114196118 & +30 6943261864), www.dramideamachine.com