Photo: Thomas Gravanis

The G. Gounaropoulos Museum

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

The home and studio of George Gounaropoulos, a Greek painter who captured light on canvas to brilliant effect.

When was it built

The original studio was built in the late 1920s. The modern annexe was added in 1994.

What's the story

Gounaropoulos’ paintings can be seen in the Athens City Council; his ‘Exaltation of Pericles’ covers the chamber’s southern wall. But it’s worth veering off track to this small museum for a more immersive experience of his work.

Why it's important

G. Gounaropoulos (1889-1977) was one of the forerunners of modern art in Greece. In his oneiric and ethereal paintings Gounaropoulos absorbed the aesthetics of cubism and surrealism, as he experienced them in Paris from 1919 – 1930, as well as, elements from his Greek cultural heritage.

Must-see

The artist’s paint brushes and sketches.

Fun fact

As a conscript, Gounaropoulos earned money as a sign-painter in Thessaloniki.