Runner
The Runner is a 9-metre-high sculpture with an inner metal frame and glass plates
Modern and Contemporary era (1821 - )
1987 Ordered by The Municipality of Athens.
1988 Was placed in Omonia Square and the specific placing caused negative comments.
1992 It was taken to pieces to be transported to its present location due to the metro’s construction works in Omonia.
1994 Its relocation under the supervision of the artist was completed.
Ottoman era (1453- 1821)
Byzantine era (331 AC- 1453)
Roman era (30 BC- 330 AC)
Hellenistic era (322- 31 BC)
Classical era (478-323 BC)
Archaic era (800-479 BC)
Geometric era (-1100- 800 BC)
Prehistory (-1100 BC)
What I can see
The “Runner” is a 9-metre-high sculpture, the work of Kostas Varotsos (1955-). It consists of an inner metal frame and glass plates, placed one on top of the other. The human form appears in impetuous, rapid movement, conveyed through the pin-points of the glass plates. On its current location at Megalis tou Genous Scholi Square, the sculpture is not limited by its surroundings, which unlike the buildings that enclose Omonia Square, allow the sculpture to be experienced amidst the constant movement of vehicles of the adjoining Vasilissis Sofias Avenue –one of Athens’ main streets– thus reinforcing the theme of the work.
What I can't see
The sculpture’s success can be attributed to its movement and symbolic character. As noted by the artist,
“The biggest challenge is when the sculpture transcends the limits of that last minute when the athlete cuts the thread and becomes connected with the city” (Antonopoulou, 2003)
It is also worth noting that the new position of the sculpture coincides with the route of the classic Marathon and the Runner “becomes one” with the marathon runners.
Info
- Address: V. Sofias Av.
Bibliography
Savvani E., (1998), Σύγχρονη Γλυπτική στην Αθήνα, [Modern Sculpture in Athens] in Epta Imeres, v. 2-31, p.p. 28-30, Kathimerini
