Asterios Touvlatzis is an art historian and curator who sees contemporary art as a powerful way to explore identity, history, and human emotion. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Art History at the University of Thessaly, where his research delves into the intersection of trauma, queer theory, and performance art—particularly within marginalized communities. With a master’s degree in art history and curatorial studies from the University of Groningen, he has developed a deep appreciation for the ways art can challenge, provoke, and inspire.
His curatorial journey has taken him across various institutions and projects, each adding layers to his understanding of contemporary artistic practices. At the Metropolitan Organisation of Museums of Visual Arts of Thessaloniki (MOMus), he worked at the Museum of Contemporary Art, where he catalogued and digitally archived the collection, helped organise exhibitions, and collaborated closely with artists and institutions. These experiences gave him firsthand knowledge of how curatorial work can bridge the past and present, connecting audiences with art in meaningful ways.
Beyond MOMus, Asterios has contributed to major exhibitions at the Groninger Museum and Nonfiction Photo. His involvement in projects like the Gianni Versace Retrospective and The Art of Hipgnosis strengthened his ability to research, plan exhibitions, and create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. His keen eye for emerging talent and innovative artistic movements allows him to bring fresh perspectives to every curatorial endeavor.
Asterios is particularly passionate about moving image art and new technologies, recognizing their potential to push the boundaries of artistic expression. Through his extensive network of artists, institutions, and curators, he stays connected to global contemporary practices and ensures that his curatorial work remains innovative and relevant.
Fluent in Greek, English, and French and currently learning Dutch Asterios thrives in international environments by engaging with artists, scholars, and audiences from diverse backgrounds. He believes that art should be accessible and thought-provoking, sparking conversations that go beyond gallery walls.
Outside of his professional life, Asterios is a creative individual who finds joy in cooking, theatre, cinema, music, and drawing. Whether experimenting in the kitchen or sketching ideas in a notebook, these personal passions feed into his artistic sensibility and enrich his approach to curating. His love for storytelling, whether through food, film, or visual art, is what makes his work in contemporary art so dynamic and engaging.
At his core, Asterios is dedicated to making contemporary art more inclusive, innovative, and thought-provoking. Whether researching artists, developing exhibitions, or building connections between institutions and communities, his work is driven by a genuine love for the arts and a belief in their transformative power.