Bustan Athina Hosts Fundraiser: A Day of Cultural Fusion and Solidarity
Make your way this Saturday, on 30 November 2024 to Bustan Athina’s fundraiser, a Levantine collective fostering cross-cultural exchange at OKUPA in Athens. From 2 to 9pm, support this singular initiative that blends food, drinks, art, music, and storytelling to highlight the shared cultural threads between the Levant and Athenians, while raising funds to support Lebanon during challenging times.
What to Expect: Experience the Best of Levantine and Athenian Cultures
Culinary Delights
Savor the flavors of the Levant with dishes prepared by four exceptional food vendors, blending authentic recipes with modern twists that bridge the culinary traditions of the Levant and Athens.
Custom Cocktails by OKUPA’s Head Mixologist
Enjoy two signature cocktails crafted by OKUPA Hotel’s head mixologist, featuring the classic Lebanese liquor arak. These bespoke drinks celebrate the unique flavors of the Levant while embracing Athenian cocktail innovation.
Interactive Totes & T-Shirts by Silk Bastards
Design your own custom tote bag or t-shirt with the celebrated screen-printing studio Silk Bastards. Priced at €15, these creations provide a tangible way to support the cause, with proceeds and donations going directly to aid Lebanon.
Roundtable Conversation with Mikey Muhannah
The day begins with a stimulating discussion led by Mikey Muhannah, founder of AFIKRA, a platform celebrating Arab culture through storytelling. Mikey will introduce AFIKRA and explore the cross-cultural connections between the Levant and Athens, sharing insights on heritage and modern realities.
Art and Design Showcase
Discover the works of 25+ artists and designers, whose creations blend Levantine and Athenian influences. This curated exhibition spans visual arts, fashion, and design, offering a snapshot of creativity born from cultural intersection.
Music Listening Session by Marc Codsi
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Lebanon with a curated session by Marc Codsi, featuring classics from the 70s to today. This free listening experience showcases the rich musical heritage of the Levant, weaving nostalgia with modern artistry.
Evening Performance: “Every Day Things Disappear” by Andreas von Plotho & Urok Shirhan
Close the day with a mesmerizing live performance titled “Every Day Things Disappear,” a collaboration between Andreas von Plotho, a visual artist and writer, and Urok Shirhan, an Onassis AiR Fellow and multidisciplinary artist. Through live drawing and dialogue, the performance explores themes of art, space, and emotion, offering a profound exploration of cultural connection and creative synergy.
Benefiting Charities
All proceeds from the event will support two esteemed Lebanese organizations:
Offre Joie
Founded in 1985, Offre Joie is a Lebanese NGO dedicated to uniting the Lebanese family through values of love, respect, and forgiveness. The organization has been instrumental in humanitarian efforts, including rebuilding homes and businesses in Beirut after the August 4th explosion.
Beit el Baraka
Established in 2018, Beit el Baraka supports Lebanese retirees and children living in financial distress. The organization provides access to healthy food, medical services, and education, ensuring dignity and support for those in need.
For those unable to attend in person, visit our Instagram account at @BustanAthina to view the list of participating artists and designers showcasing on the day. Many of these creators will continue to sell their works with proceeds going to support Lebanon, providing an opportunity to engage with their practices and contribute to the cause remotely.
About Bustan Athina
Bustan Athina is a Levantine collective based in Athens, Greece, dedicated to fostering cross-cultural collaboration. By highlighting similarities in history, food, art, and storytelling, Bustan Athina bridges communities and inspires unity through cultural exchange.
When: Saturday, 30 November 2024 , from 2pm to 9pm
Where: OKUPA Hotel, Athens, Psaromiligkou 9, Athens Tel: 21 1010 9999
Entry: Free, with opportunities to donate through creative experiences and contributions. All Ages Welcome
Contact Bustan Athina at BustanAthina@gmail.com or @BustanAthina