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June 4, 2004

University hosts works by Olympic artist

Works by artist Euripides “Rip” Kastaris, the first Greek American chosen by the United States Olympic Committee to commemorate U.S. athletes, will be on display at California State University, Sacramento from June 19 to July 31 in the University Library Gallery.

The artist will be present during a free show-opening event starting at 6 p.m., Saturday, June 19. A brief program honoring Olympic athletes and community leaders will feature the unveiling of “Kyklos-Circle of Glory,” Kastaris’ work that will be seen as a mural in Athens Olympic Stadium. A reception will follow with Greek food, wine and entertainment.

“Enduring Vision: Works by Euripides ‘Rip’ Kastaris,” is part of the CSUS Showcase, a series of exhibits, performances, concerts, lectures and displays to complement the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials at the University from July 9 to 18.

Kastaris’ stunning modern interpretations of the Hellenic imagery of his heritage have appeared as Byzantine icons in sacred sanctuaries and on CDs by rock superstar Sting. Combining gold leaf, jewel-toned colors and ancient textures, his melding of classical Greek themes and the contemporary pursuit of athletic excellence have made him an official U.S. Olympic artist for the 2002 and 2004 games. Kastaris’ epic mural “Kyklos-Circle of Glory,” honoring the Hellenic origins of the Olympics Games, the first modern games in 1896 and the return of the games to Athens in 2004, will be the focal point of the VIP center in Athens Olympic Stadium.

The son of a Greek Orthodox priest, Kastaris emigrated to the U.S. as a child as part of his father’s mission. He is a graduate of Washington University, where he has also served as a visiting faculty member. He began his career as a commercial illustrator, creating promotional art for film, print advertising and the Internet. His shift to fine art followed an intense period of research at Greek historical sites, museums and monasteries.

For more information and University Library Gallery hours, call (916) 278-4189. For media assistance, contact CSUS public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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