Voussouras Andreas (1957)

Born in Athens in 1957, he studied Sociology at Nanterre University in Paris (1979-1982). A self-taught visual artist, he presented his first solo exhibition in 1984 at the Zeta-Mi Gallery in Thessaloniki.
His work comprises mainly constructions, environments and installations as well as paintings. He uses humble materials (cement, cotton, twigs, wood, wax, metal, tar, glass) or readymade materials with visible traces of human use and the wear of time. The objects turn into signs and symbols that allude to personal or collective memories. Gradually he adds to his compositions family snapshots, X-rays, clothes and personal letters and employs mixed-media techniques to make convincing connections among seemingly disparate elements. The artist himself sees his installations as shells that house together matter, spirit and the memory of human action. Despite the prevalent presence of personal experiences, the ritualistic atmosphere and the frequent allusions to the past, his works often convey a mood of social critique, sometimes with traces of irony. The personal narrative and an existential quest invest this commentary on contemporary reality with a lyrical aspect.
In addition to visual art, his activities include radio production and musical shows, visual poetry, Mail Art and stage design. He has collaborated with contemporary dance ensembles and has created artistic projects in public spaces.
He has had solo and group exhibitions in Greece and abroad (Austria, Germany, USA, Italy, Portugal and Turkey). The presentations of his work include the International Biennales of Sculpture, the Skironion Centre for Sculpture, Athens (1985, 1986, 1987, 1994, 1996, 1997), Kelyfos, City of Athens Arts Centre (1997), Inscriptions of Oblivion, Galleria San Nicola, Venice (1997) and Art Athina (1996, 2003, 2005, 2008). His works can be found at the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art in Thessaloniki and in numerous private and public collections.