The Sustainability Study for Eleni Vernadaki’s historic Ceramics Workshop has been completed.

The study examines the operational model, the possibilities for training, production, and hosting artists, the utilization of equipment and kilns, as well as the technical and operational requirements for upgrading the space. The Ministry of Culture’s goal is to create a modern ceramics workshop that is open and accessible to creators of all levels, from young artists to experienced potters.

From the workshop of Eleni Vernadaki

The Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, stated: “The utilization of the Vernadakis Workshop is not only about preserving an important part of our contemporary cultural heritage, but, above all, about continuing a living tradition of ceramic art. Eleni Vernadaki, the iconic creator, renewed artistic ceramics, leaving a strong mark with her work, her collaborations, and her personal style. We want this space to remain active and productive, to inspire new artists to create new works by drawing on Vernadaki’s legacy.

The relevant departments of the Ministry of Culture are already initiating the necessary studies for the restoration and energy upgrade of the workshop building-monument, designed by Takis Zenetos. Our strategic goal is to reintegrate Eleni Vernadaki’s workshop into the contemporary artistic landscape, honoring the past and serving the future of Greek ceramics. Eleni Vernadaki, internationally recognized for over 60 years, has contributed significantly to the evolution of contemporary ceramics through her personal style, her pioneering techniques, her boldness and creative imagination, and her collaborations with important artists. Her workshop functioned as a productive “cell” of contemporary art, influencing generations of visual artists.

Lina Mendoni, Εleni Vernadakis

Eleni Vernardaki’s Ceramics Workshop was acquired by the Ministry of Culture, following a unanimous decision by the Central Council of Modern Monuments. In 2021, it was declared a monument of our cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, along with its equipment and auxiliary spaces. It is housed in the iconic building designed by architect Takis Zenetos, a rare example of industrial architecture from the 1970s. For decades, it has been a point of reference for artistic ceramics in Greece and internationally.