The Greeks developed a style that incorporated an idealized yet realistic approach to the representation of the figure. Greek artists moved toward an expression based on observation of living beings and refinement of anatomical elements. Gods and goddesses were imagined in human form but ideal in proportion, without imperfections. The unclothed human figure in its most perfect manifestation was admired for its harmonious beauty. The archetypical proportions of the human body were the measure and standard of beauty for all things.

The ancient Greeks lived in a world filled with divine and semi-divine beings. Their religious beliefs and folk traditions were expressed in human terms with gods and goddesses, demi-gods, and heroes often conquering animals and mythical beasts. Even such an abstract idea as poetic inspiration was given human form. Representations of all these beings are found in Greek art: in temples or in public spaces, on everyday objects of bronze, ceramic, and precious materials.
Greek artists achieved a level of sophistication that is arguably unmatched by any other contemporary civilization in the West. Indeed, it is easy to see why ancient Greek art has been an inspiration for artists throughout the ages - with its emphasis on order, harmony, and balance, as well as a focus on celebrating and idealizing the human figure, Greek art captured a moment of beauty for all eternity.

It is also worth noting that Greek art has inspired imitations and revivals over the centuries. The ancient Romans were influenced heavily by Greek art, and in time Renaissance painters, architects, and sculptors rediscovered the glories of Greece.

In medieval times, Byzantine art was developed into the most fascinating and unique type of art: frescoes, icons and everyday life items are being displayed in the most important museums of the world, and Greece is no exception to the rule. Greece is home of the three most important and best preserved Byzantine centers on Earth: Thessaloniki, Athos and Meteora.

As far as architecture is concerned, wonderful examples can be found all over Europe and the rest of the world. During the time of the Greek influence over the ancient world, buildings were constructed in the Greek style that still remain today. In addition, Greek architecture and its link to democracy inspired architectural movements during the Italian Renaissance and the British Greek Revival. Although the Greek architectural influence is world-wide, Greece retains many famous buildings such as the acropolis in Athens, Apollos temple at Delphi, Zeus temple in Athens, the theater at Epidaurus, the tombs of Vergina and the ancient temple in Samothrace.

High-quality marble from the Greek Isles of Paros and Naxos was the source for some wonderful sculpture in the third century B.C. Those that remain in museums demonstrate the high quality of the work. Greece doesnt have a record of a lot of ancient Greek painting, but it does have marvelous images painted on pottery. The first clay pots thrown from a wheel date back to 2000 B.C., and thousands of Greek pots remain that can be used to trace the evolution of the art form through the various Greek civilizations. Greece was one of the first civilizations to embrace drama as an art. The first recorded dramatic presentation was given by Thespis in the 6th century B.C. Thus, the term thespian for actor was derived. Greek playwrights used Greek mythology as a foundation in creating some of the complicated plots in the famous Greek tragedies.

It may be Greeks famous citizens, history, and art forms that make the country seem so familiar and interesting. But it is the brilliant blue sea, the friendly people and charming villages, the golden sandy beaches that bring in the millions of tourists each year. The picturesque island villages are full of whitewashed homes perched on steep cliffs, summer flowers, and tiny shops with interesting handicrafts and wares. What a better place for art to flourish!