The Municipal Art Gallery-G.I Katsigra Museum in Larissa is a treasure trove of Greek art, founded in 1983 thanks to the generosity of G.I. Katsigras, a local surgeon and art aficionado.
Katsigras donated 700 paintings, which became the core collection of the gallery. These paintings are primarily works by Greek artists, covering a period from the 19th century up until 1960. The collection is noteworthy for its breadth and quality, considered the third most important in Greece, following the Koutlidi collection and the National Gallery collection.
In addition to the Katsigra collection, the gallery has also incorporated another 210 paintings from Greek artists belonging to the municipal collection, making it a significant repository of Greek art across different time periods.
But the Municipal Art Gallery-G.I Katsigra Museum is not just a place to view art; it is also a space for creating it. The gallery runs a workshop for the artistic training of both adults and children. A range of art forms are taught here, including painting, hagiography (the painting of saints and religious scenes), mosaic, and ceramic art. This makes it a comprehensive center for anyone interested in both viewing and creating art.
Adding to the gallery’s educational focus is a puppet-show workshop, a unique feature that attracts both young and old. Educational programs are also designed specifically for junior and senior high-school students, providing them with a deeper understanding of art and its various mediums.
The gallery also serves as a publisher, releasing catalogues of exhibitions, posters, and photo albums, further enhancing its role as a central hub for art and culture in Larissa.
With its rich collections, educational offerings, and focus on fostering artistic talent, the Municipal Art Gallery-G.I Katsigra Museum serves as a cornerstone of cultural life in Larissa. Whether you’re an art historian, a budding artist, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, this gallery offers something for everyone
