A new mural by Guido Van Helten in Exarchia (Athens, Greece)
This mural by Guido Van Helten in Athens is a tribute to the antifascist neighbourhood of Exharchia, where the mural is located -a neighbourhood inhabited by students, musicians, writers and creatives, hence the tribute to the area’s bookstores, which represent freedom of expression, philosophy and journalism as well as family run, independent businesses.
The mural depicts lifelong bookbinders Georgios and Vasilis, as a way for the Australian street artist to highlight Exarcheia’s characters and passionate local identity, as well as the dedication and the lifelong exchange between a mentor (Vasilis) and his student (Georgios, who walked into Vasilis’ shop at the age of 12). Location: Emmanouil Benaki 33, Athens
Ciao, my name is Giulia. I’m a writer specialised in street art and graffiti. Since 2011 I’ve been running this independent street art blog, which has been the media partner of major street art festivals across Europe. I was the Communication & Content Manager of Amsterdam’s STRAAT Museum and now I’m a freelance writer and content creator based in Rome. I work with creative enterprises and museums, and my writing has been published in street art catalogues and art publications.
I also write "Beyond the Walls", a monthly newsletter of editorials and critical insights into the world of urban art, and in 2024 I launched the book series "As Seen on the Streets of…", an independent publishing project that captures the cities shaping the global street art movement through my personal experiences, in-depth research, and the voices of local street artists.
Giulia Blocal
