BIENNALE OF CONTEMPORARY KERAMICS
RHODES ISLAND, SOUTH AEGEAN
WHERE THE DAY STARTS
Rhodes, Greece | June–October 2026
CONTEMPORARY CERAMICS EXHIBITION
40 Artists – 40 Original Works
Design & Implementation Team
BIG BLUE DOT NPO
The Biennale of Contemporary Keramics (BCK) is delighted to announce the team of curators for its second edition, taking place on the island of Rhodes from June to October 2026 under the title “Where the Day Starts.”
Anissa Touati, Stamatia Dimitrakopoulos and Loukia Thomopoulou.
“As curators, we see the Biennale and the Island of Rhodes as a meeting point where the Mediterranean’s diverse histories, traditions and futures come together. Ceramic techniques have crossed shores for centuries, evolving through migration, trade, and dialogue. Today, artists reinterpret these age-old methods to address current questions and create new connections. We aim to highlight both the ancient bonds and contemporary narratives that shape the region, opening space for new perspectives on the Mediterranean’s future.”
The Biennale of Contemporary Keramics (BCK) will bring together contemporary artists from the Mediterranean who either live in one of the countries of the basin or have a meaningful connection to the region. Dedicated to promoting contemporary ceramics as an evolving art form, the Biennale moves nomadically across Greek islands, drawing inspiration from each location’s distinct history, archaeology, mythology, and culture.
The Choice of Rhodes
The Symbolism of Rhodes Island, Greece
According to ancient mythology, the island was named after Rhodos, the god Helios’ lover. Helios caused the island to rise from the sea so it could be the first to greet his radiant light each day. The sun’s symbolism extends far beyond local legend; throughout the Mediterranean, it stands as a powerful metaphor for connection, exchange, and the shared heritage of diverse civilizations. Its light has guided sailors, fostered trade, and illuminated the crossroads of cultures that define the region.
The biennale’s title, “Where the Day Starts” is not only a reference to the island’s mythic dawn but also a call to new beginnings; igniting artistic exploration, catalyzing dialogue, and challenging participants to reimagine the Mediterranean’s shared heritage and ever-evolving identities in the light of today.
Together, the three curators bring extensive experience across the Mediterranean.
Drawing on the concept of “Mediterraneanism,” Anissa Touati has been instrumental in shaping a new vision of the Mediterranean, redefining the identity of key institutions by forging lasting networks and collaborations across North Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe.
Stamatia Dimitrakopoulou plays a pivotal role in the Mediterranean art scene, revitalizing its contemporary landscape and forging strong links between Greece and the wider art world through her leadership at Art Athina and collaborations with major international institutions.
Loukia Thomopoulou draws on her Greek heritage, developing artist residencies and ceramic programs on Greek islands that foster creative exchange within the region. Their combined expertise reflects a deep commitment to the Mediterranean’s cultural vitality and interconnectedness.
Anissa Touati
Anissa Touati
Stamatia Dimitrakopoulos
Stamatia Dimitrakopoulos
Loukia Thomopoulou
Founder & Creative Director
Loukia Thomopoulou
Founder & Creative Director
The jury is composed of the Biennale’s curators, together with esteemed professionals in the fields of Contemporary Art and Ceramics, including curators, art historians, and other specialists offering a broad range of perspectives and expertise to ensure a rigorous and thoughtful selection process.
Christina Anglada
Independent curator and writer
Christina Anglada
Independent curator and writer
Florian Daguet Bresson
Contemporary Ceramics Curator & Art Dealer (FR)
Florian Daguet Bresson
Contemporary Ceramics Curator & Art Dealer (FR)
Theodora Chorafas
Ceramic artist, educator, and cultural organizer (GR)
Theodora Chorafas
Ceramic artist, educator, and cultural organizer (GR)
Stefano Collicelli Cagol
General Director of Centro per l’arte contemporanea Luigi Pecci in Prato
Stefano Collicelli Cagol
General Director of Centro per l’arte contemporanea Luigi Pecci in Prato
Karina El Helou
Director Sursock Museum (LB)
Karina El Helou
Director Sursock Museum (LB)
Orhan Gorbon
CEO Gorbon Tiles, Arts Patron (TUR)
Orhan Gorbon
CEO Gorbon Tiles, Arts Patron (TUR)
Katerina Gregos
Artistic Director of EMST (National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens) (GR)
Katerina Gregos
Artistic Director of EMST (National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens) (GR)
Nikos Liaros
Archaeologist-Ceramist
Nikos Liaros
Archaeologist-Ceramist
Artists Selected through the Open Call
The Biennale of Contemporary Keramics will host an exhibition of renewed and emerging artists to be inspired, research, and present their work.
At the end of the open call, an international jury composed of leading figures from the world of ceramics, curating, and art will decide on the shortlist of participants.
Press Kit
Press Release GR
Press Release ENG
Sign up to our Newsletter
Subscribe and stay informed and updated about BigBlueDot