The ART-ACT Institute, established by the Greek artist Christos Theofilis, has a history rooted in the promotion and exploration of contemporary arts and letters. Here's a detailed look at its history:

Foundation and Purpose:

• Established: The ART-ACT Institute for Contemporary Arts and Letters was founded in 2000 by Christos Theofilis. Later, in 2007, he established the ART-ACT Institute of Art.
• Vision: The institute was created with the aim of fostering a space where art could be explored, discussed, and presented in its most authentic form. Theofilis envisioned ART-ACT as a platform for artists to express their inner truths without succumbing to commercial pressures.

Activities and Contributions:

• Exhibitions and Events: Since its inception, the ART-ACT Institute has hosted numerous exhibitions, showcasing the work of Christos Theofilis himself, as well as other artists. Notable exhibitions include those at various galleries and cultural centers in Greece, focusing on themes like Greek folklore, shadow theater, and cultural commentary.
• Art Criticism and Literature: Theofilis, besides being an artist, also engaged in art criticism. His involvement in the ART-ACT Institute included writing for newspapers like "Avgi" and "O Chronos," supervising art publications, and organizing art events. This dual role helped in shaping contemporary art discourse in Greece.
• Cultural and Historical Engagement: The institute has been instrumental in exploring and preserving aspects of Greek cultural heritage through art, particularly through exhibitions and publications that delve into Greek traditions like shadow theater.

Publications:

• The institute has been involved in publishing works that reflect on art, culture, and literature. Some include:
  • "Shadow Theater: Two-Drachma Editions"
  • "Homage to Oscar Wild: Icono-Graphy of a Portrait"

Impact and Legacy:

• Cultural Influence: Through its activities, ART-ACT has played a significant role in the Greek art scene, encouraging a dialogue between traditional and contemporary art forms.
• Education and Critique: By providing a platform for exhibitions, critiques, and publications, ART-ACT has contributed to the education of artists and the public in contemporary art practices and theories.

The ART-ACT Institute under Christos Theofilis has been a testament to his belief that art should derive its energy from the artist's inner truth, thereby maintaining its integrity against commercial influences. This philosophy has shaped the institute's approach to art, making it a unique entity in the landscape of Greek contemporary art.