Oil, watercolor, breath-taking photography, and ceramics will be featured at this year's "Greek Island Images" art show, which is being held as part of the 38th Annual Sacramento Greek Festival, sponsored by the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation in Sacramento, CA.

The art show will take place during Labor Day Weekend (August 31, Sept. 1, and Sept. 2) at the Sacramento Convention Center, located at 13th and J streets.  It is expected to draw thousands of visitors.

Limited and open edition prints, as well as gift items in all price ranges, will also be available at the event. Proceeds will benefit the Building Fund of the Church.

The event will showcase the work of Gregory Kondos, Alexis Scandalis Genung, John "Yianni" McGinley, Tony Natsoulas, Michele Ross, Andrew Saffas, Harriet Golfos Santroch, Thomas A. Sellas, Angeliki Tzouvelakos and Lelia Velianitis.

Gregory Kondos is recognized as one of America's most prominent California landscape artists. His work has been described as "a visual feast."  Alexis Scandalis Genung has studied art at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., as well as in Paris, Greece, and the University of California. Her works are characterized by precision, detail, and a sense of serenity. Visitors to the exhibit will also have the opportunity to view the Greek island photography of Angeliki Tzouvelakos, including scenes from Hydra and Pylos.

"Sneak previews" of the works of Hellenic International Artists' Foundation artists can be seen at the group's website.

Admission to the festival and art show is $4.00 ($3.00 for seniors).  Children 12 and under will be admitted free. From 11 am to 3 pm on Friday there will be special free admission for everyone. In addition to the art exhibit, the fesitival will feature Greek cuisine, pastries, music and dancing, children activities, a religious display, cooking demonstrations, Greek imports for purchase, and films about Greece. To contact the Annunciation church, phone (916) 443-2033, send a fax to (916) 443-2743, or e-mail VBooros@AnnunciationSac.com.

Foundation Supports Artists, Helps Promote Hellenic Culture and Heritage

Founded in 1995 as the result of conversations with internationally known artist Greg Kondos, the Hellenic International Artists' Foundation seeks to preserve and enhance the artistic and cultural heritage of Hellenism.

The foundation supports member artists and art lovers, encourages artistic activity among young people, and provides opportunities for the public to experience and appreciate the Hellenic artistic heritage.  In addition, it helps raise funds for other cultural activities such as building projects, folk dance groups, and charitable activities.

Gregory Kondos, "Byzantine Church"

Last year, the foundation participated in fundraisers at the new St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, and the St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church. It also sponsored the Hellas Greek Cultural Club of California State University during its fall multicultural festival.

In 2001, the organization has supported the Sacramento Symphony's "World Music Festival," and a multimedia event, "Greece: The Soul," that took place at the California State University Theater. Three of the foundation's artists participated in the successful "Black Tie & Tennies" benefit in Sacramento. On March 9th, fifteen artists supported the District Scholarship Programs for the Order of AHEPA and Daughters of Penelope at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension in Oakland, CA.

Future shows include the Oakland Cathedral's three-day Food and Cultural Festival in May, and a group show supporting the Modern Greek Studies Foundation in San Francisco

Hellenic International Artists' Foundation Attn. Alexis Scandalis Genung Michael Genung, Executive Director 7842 Tamara Drive, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 Voice: (916) 967-2330 Fax: (916)967-7909 E-mail: helleniciaf@ns.net