Ioanna Papantoniou has passed away — the renowned and talented costume designer of the National Theatre of Greece and, for many years, Curator of the Costume Collection of the Central Lyceum of Greek Women in Athens.
For all of us, the members of the Lyceum of Greek Women branches, she was “our Ioanna,” “Nana.” She was an extraordinary woman who introduced us to the world of Greek cultural tradition and generously shared her extensive knowledge of traditional Greek costumes. Through her guidance we learned to appreciate the value of our traditional attire and to study the proper way it should be created and worn.
Through the seminars organized by the Central Lyceum of Greek Women and through our personal acquaintance with this remarkable personality, endless horizons opened before us for a deeper understanding of our folk culture — a precious national heritage that connects us directly with the ancient world and demonstrates the continuity of Hellenism in our land.
She was truly a national treasure — a remarkable personality who understood early in life that giving and striving to improve the society around us is a supreme moral value and nourishment for the human soul.
Through her guidance she supported us when we participated in performances of the Central Lyceum of Greek Women at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, strengthening our confidence at a time when we were still relatively inexperienced.
She leaves behind an important body of publications in which she recorded valuable knowledge for future generations. She was also the founder of the Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation in Nafplio and the driving force behind its Historical Museum, which is visited by thousands of people.
We did not only respect Ioanna Papantoniou. We loved her.
May she rest in peace, our beloved and respected teacher.
May her journey be blessed among the righteous and virtuous souls.
For the Board of Directors
President
Kassara – Trikoli Kalliopi
Honorary President
Kalliope Mavrou
