B & M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts and Music

B and M Theocharakis Foundation for the Visual Arts and Music was founded by Basil and Marina Theocharakis in 2004 as a public benefit foundation instituted by Presidential Decree, it is located opposite the Parliament, on the corner of Vassilisis Sophias Avenue and Merlin St in Athens, Greece.

The building that houses the Foundation was initially constructed in the 1920’s, in the eclectic neoclassical style that was then dominant. During its lifetime it has served many functions and was owned by the Arab Bank before its acquisition by the B & M Theocharakis Arts Foundation in 2005. In 1985 it was classified as a protected heritage building

The Foundation has at its disposal over 420 m² of open plan exhibition spaces, as well as a 170 seat amphitheatre. A media and data-base access service will be available for those wishing to make the Foundation a part of their research activities. Access for visitors with limited mobility has also been fully taken into account.

The program of the B. & M. Theocharakis Arts Foundation will include a both large (thematic or retrospective) and smaller individual exhibitions, recitals, seminars and workshops, lectures. Activities will aim for an interdisciplinary approach, so as to present the visual arts, architecture and music in the full richness of their relation to other disciplines and fields of research. Another fundamental aspect will be the Foundation’s openness to joint projects and synergies with other institutions both within Greece and abroad, either through exchange activities, the building of network projects or co-productions.

The Foundation’s activities will be completed by educational programs (with a special emphasis on those addressing the contact of young children with contemporary art), publications and scholarships or awards for research and artistic practice.

The conversion works will be completed during the first half of 2007 and the foundation will open in October 2007 .