The exhibition Why Look at Animals? A Case for the Rights of Non Human Lives, curated by Katerina Gregos, is a landmark presentation at the National Museum of Contemporary Art Athens (EMST), centering on animal rights, ethical relations, and ecological justice through art. Drawing inspiration from John Berger’s essay of the same name, the identity and design concept confronts the alienation, commodification, and systematic exploitation of non-human animals, making visible the invisible. Spanning multiple floors, the exhibition unfolds categories such as historical contexts of colonialism and industrialism, present-day urban and ecological realities, forms of animal activism, and forward-looking visions of interspecies creativity, humor, and empathy. Visual and spatial design elements were conceived to support this layered narrative, enhancing clarity, emotional impact, and ethical resonance, while providing visitors with a structured, immersive experience that bridges art, politics, and planetary care.
Exhibition Design
Why Look at Animals?
A Case for the Rights of Non-Human Lives
