ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Janis Rafa's First Institutional Solo Show in Greece Explores Human-Horse Bond

exhibition · 2026-05-01

Janis Rafa's inaugural solo exhibition, titled 'We Betrayed the Horses,' has commenced at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) in Athens. Running until October 5, 2025, this display, curated by Daphne Vitali, marks a significant moment for Rafa in Greece's art landscape. Part of the museum's 'Why Look at Animals?' initiative, the show delves into the complex dynamics between humans and horses through a variety of artistic media, including installations and videos. Ethologist Margherita Carretti notes the profound symbolism of horses related to themes of freedom and authority. Highlights include striking violet-lit works and the video piece 'The Absence of your Body'.

Key facts

  • Janis Rafa's first institutional solo show in Greece is at EMST, Athens.
  • Exhibition title: 'We Betrayed the Horses'.
  • Runs until October 5, 2025.
  • Curated by Daphne Vitali.
  • Part of EMST's annual program 'Why Look at Animals?'.
  • Features installations, sculptures, neon, and video.
  • Includes video 'The Absence of your Body has Shaped the Spectacles of our Past' (2025).
  • Previous video 'Lacerate' (2020) was shown at the 2022 Venice Biennale.

Entities

Artists

  • Janis Rafa

Institutions

  • EMST (National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens)
  • Fondazione In Between Art Film

Locations

  • Athens
  • Greece
  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources