Northern Greece's Odd and Unusual Customs in Melbourne

'Faces + Masks' Series by Nikos Vavdinoudis captures Northern Greece’s odd and unusual customs. The series is presented at the Hellenic Museum Melbourne and the acclaimed photographer speaks to SBS Greek Program.

Photographer Nikos Vavdinoudis's "Faces + Masks" at the Hellenic Museum Source: SBS Greek/Panos Apostolou

Faces + Masks is a photographic series from Greek artist Nikos Vavdinoudis which features the costumes of eight villages in rural Northern Greece and the obscure but fascinating rituals associated with them.

The practices of these villages, known for their elaborate animalistic costumes, supposedly dates to ancient Greek Dionysian celebrations. Dionysus is, amongst other things, the god of resurrection having died and been reborn three days later. This ancient festival is celebrated during the Christian holiday of Epiphany and the Baptism of Christ. The

The sub-summation of ancient or pagan festivals into newer religious ones is a practice adopted by many religions. It allows the dialogue between the ancient past and the present to remain virtually unbroken.