After original work by the artist as seen as part of The Flag Project at the Rink at Rockefeller Center April 2023
Archival print on 100 lb 11x17 white paper. Signed and numbered.
In 1986 I immigrated to New York City with my parents from Athens, Greece. One of my early memories of the new country is linked to imagery from the place I came from, and was created by Americans.
Smell and memory are closely linked together, so it’s no surprise that the memory of a smell is one of my early memories here. Although I did not drink coffee myself for years to come, I vividly remember the smell of it, and with it the cup it was served in. The Greek cup, with the Meander, the blue and white colors of the Greek flag and the welcoming message on it “We Are Happy To Serve You”. It is suggestive of unity, purpose and strength and still brings a smile on my face every time I see it somewhere. It was created by Americans and made the immigrating Greeks feel more at home here. But it has become iconic of this city, and to me symbolic of the diversity and inclusivity of the city and a stepping stone to the many ethnic groups and their cuisine that make up the Fabric of this city.
Loved seeing it on a flagpole at Rockefeller Center as it was an iconic New York moment at an iconic New York place.
- Subject Matter: portrait
- Collections: 15 Art On Paper