My name is Rose Raikos nee Bibby. I call myself a Healing Artist, which means I have used my art and poetry to heal emotionally, physically and spiritually. My Athena Collection is my personal response to my individual pain I feel as a human being of a Western Culture when I hear about the Parthenon Marbles, and why they still have not been returned back to their home the Parthenon, Athens Greece.
To be an Ambassador for the International Organising Committee-Australia- for the Restitution of the Parthenon Marbles INC, for me is a veritable honour and also a healing process, it helps me as a Healing Artist to do something which I believe will ultimately on their return be a healing factor required for Western Society today.
Please visit my webpages www.therosewriter.com to see the rest of this article and a Poem Athena Weeps.
(Photo: Here I am holding Athena, old from immortal sadness.)
Rose Raikos
On my first world trip in 1965 (which I won in a talent quest), I was accompanied by my brother Bill. We were travelling for five wonderful months during which time we visited many of the great museums of the world. I became angrier and angrier as I viewed in each of these establishments, the exquisite treasures of ancient Greece.
The Parthenon Marbles represented the worst case scenario and I am conversant with Lord Elgin's evil escapades. Attending a number of your lectures enlightened me on the actual evidence available from the period, proving that he acted outside the laws of the time.
Your actions have generated increased international awareness and may well be the catalyst to force further diplomatic action in a matter which has long been thought grossly unjust by all sides.
May you be well and happy to pursue your noble quest.
Helen Zerefos
"What is happening with the Parthenon Marbles is a disgrace. There was an artistic crime committed over 200 years ago. The fact that Lord Elgin's ancestors don't seem to realise it and try to redeem themselves makes me sad. The whole world must realise the magnitude of this crime. The marbles are our history and the continuation of this injustice is a great insult towards the Greek people of all generations"
Nikos Bonovas
Niko’s inspiration to draw and paint stems from Ancient Greek History, Mythology and music.
For more information about Nikos’ art visit his website www.nikosart.com
Unfortunately, the alleged promises to return the marbles to their mother land have been denied. This has truly disappointed me. Despite the major destructions of 1687, the plunder caused by Lord Elgin & centuries passing by, the Parthenon’s unique beauty will always exist within civilization as the holy shrine of the Immortal Greek Spirit. I would like to thank Mr Comino and his Committee for giving me the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings regarding this topic.
Poppy Papantoniou
Poppy is an artist specialised in 3D and panoramic sculptures. You can visit her website www.castandsculpt.com for samples of her work and her inspiration.
