Nefeli Papadimouli

Architecture of encounters

Nefeli Papadimouli

M supports artists with distinctive creative voices through long-term mentoring. Nefeli Papadimouli is one of them. Born in Greece, she trained as an architect before moving to Paris to study art. She continues to live and work there today. Papadimouli works across a range of media, from participatory actions in public spaces to sculpture, drawing, costume design, video, installation and performance. This autumn, M is dedicating a solo exhibition to her wider oeuvre.

In 2021, M presented Papadimouli’s performance ‘Skinscapes’ at Playground: colourful textiles that moved through the space and among visitors during live performances. M organised an open call and selected the performers alongside the artist. The wearable sculptures connected people and invited them to move together. On the wall, they resembled abstract, monochrome paintings. When donned by a group of people, they sprang to life, transforming into a collective ‘skin’ that connected their bodies and redefined the space. The emerging composition unfolded slowly, creating a visually thrilling live experience.

Inspired by phenomenology, feminism and contemporary political theory, Papadimouli explores how distance, proximity and movement function as essential elements within processes of coexistence, social conflict, negotiation and equilibrium. Central to her work is a series of modular sculptures that create an architecture of encounter and invite collective movement. Through these works, Papadimouli explores the interconnectedness of cultural and natural forms and examines the relationship between body and space.

Since 2021, Papadimouli has explored new directions in her visual art and performances, and her work has been presented internationally across a range of platforms. M has continued to follow her career and is now showcasing the diversity of Papadimouli’s oeuvre in a solo exhibition featuring sculptures, installations, video works and performances. As part of the exhibition, M is also supporting a new production, which will be presented live for the first time during the Playground festival from 19 to 22 November.