Now Online: Andreas Angelidakis, Iolas, 2014

This week we are delighted to present Iolas, a video by Athens-based architect, artist and educator Andreas Angelidakis. Originally presented in Angelidakis’s solo exhibition Every End is a Beginning at EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens, Iolas had its US premiere at SI during the inaugural edition of our Architecture and Design Series, Fin de Siècle, curated by Angelidakis himself.

Andreas Angelidakis here tells the ill-fated tale of Villa Iolas, a massive estate built by Greek art dealer Alexander Iolas in the suburbs of Athens between 1951 and 1972. Widely known for his flamboyant personality and representation of some of the 20th century’s greatest artists including Max Ernst, René Magritte, Salvador Dalí and Niki de Saint Phalle, Iolas erected his villa with the intention of housing his priceless collection and turning it into a public museum upon his death. Following a series of scandals published in Greek tabloids, the state rejected Iolas’s offer, and the villa subsequently was looted and fell into disrepair. Using 3D architectural rendering software as well as archival footage, Angelidakis presents a derelict dreamscape, haunted by its namesake specter. 

Still from Andreas Angelidakis, Iolas, 2014. Digital video, 8:25. 

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council. Special support is provided by Council Member Carlina Rivera.