Athens’ beloved glass sculpture, ‘Dromeas’, gets a sparkling makeover! But is this routine maintenance or a controversial act of preservation?
In a joint effort, Athens’ dedicated municipal team and Karcher systems recently gave the iconic ‘Dromeas’ a thorough cleaning. This 12-meter-high masterpiece, created by the renowned Greek artist Costas Varotsos, is a breathtaking sight to behold. Installed in 1998 near the Athens Hilton, it showcases thousands of sharp glass pieces, meticulously arranged on an iron frame to capture the dynamic motion of a runner.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas emphasized the importance of this maintenance, stating, “We are not just cleaning a sculpture; we are safeguarding a symbol of our city’s identity. These monuments are Athens’ living history, and we must ensure they shine bright for generations to come.”
And here’s where it gets intriguing: While some applaud the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, others question the frequency of these cleaning operations. Is it necessary to clean the sculpture every two years? Could this frequent maintenance potentially harm the artwork over time? These are the questions that spark debate among art enthusiasts and conservationists.
What do you think? Is the city’s dedication to maintaining its public art a commendable effort or an overzealous act? Share your thoughts and let’s explore the delicate balance between preservation and potential over-maintenance.