A dream of Caterina Pizanias and Marianna Dendrinou to show the works of contemporary Canadian artists in Falatathos became a reality with a notable first exhibit, titled "Re-collections," featuring recent works by accomplished Edmonton artist Phil Darrah. And what a success it was-the majority of the works were sold, the gallery will continue representing Phil Darrah's works, and a show of Alberta sculptor Isla Burns' art is planned for late summer in 2005.

The opening of "Re-collections" brought out more than one hundred locals and visitors from Athens, Patras, Thessaloniki, and Canada. Those attending were members of the art world, such as the President of the Friends of the Benaki Museum, the premier museum in Athens of Greek art and culture, members of the political elite, the Cultural Attaché/Public Relations Officer of The Canadian Embassy in Athens, and a number of local artists, intelligentsia, and art teachers.

Key to the exhibit's success was the extensive publicity undertaken by The Exhibition House and The ArtExchange. Press Releases and invitations were sent by the hundreds, and the island of Tinos was covered by exhibition posters. The exhibit was covered by two national papers in Greece, The Athens News, the only English language paper published in Greece, and The Kathemerini, another national newspaper, read and respected for its commitment to covering the arts.

The poster was such a success with Tiniots that the painting depicted on it was bought before the opening. Artist Phil Darrah's arrival on the island became almost an event in itself, with locals pointing him out as he made the rounds of the coffee shops and restaurants. "You see that, he's the Canadian artist; he is staying with us, he is having breakfast in our place, etc.," became the buzz of the island during his stay. The Tiniots were proud to be the hosts of an international artist.

The venue for the exhibition opening was the stunningly beautiful gallery housed in the centuries old family estate that Marianna Dendrinou and her husband, Yiorgos Kollaros, have so lovingly and carefully restored. Their restorative efforts have been recognized in a multi-page illustrated article in Greece's stylish magazine To Spiti (The House). For the opening night guests were treated to a full array of local cheeses, breads, wine, raki and sweets on the gallery's spectacular terrace just below the house, overlooking the Valley of Falatathos. Aside from the art, the gallery also offered catalogues and posters which were popular sellers on opening night.

For a copy of Phil Darrah's "Re-collections" catalogue, or for more information on the ArtExchange's upcoming ventures, please contact Dr. Caterina Pizanias.