The Collectors

The collectors are George Gaitanaris and Io Dolka, Greek scientists, originating from Tripolis, Arcadia, residing in the United States. George Gaitanaris is a physician scientist, with decades of research in medicine and biotechnology. In 2019 he was awarded the Prix Galien Canada, one of the highest distinctions in the field of pharmacology, referred to as the Nobel Prize of pharmaceutical research. Io Dolka is a professional patient advocate helping people with rare medical conditions and diagnostic challenges. She is a founding and/or active member of several non-profit and for-profit organizations in patient advocacy and diagnostic error, and is regarded as a pioneer in the field.

George and Io, apart from their love for science, are also passionate about art. They have been systematically collecting art from various periods and countries for more than twenty years. A part of their collection is associated with the Greek world and history, mainly the period of the Ottoman rule and the struggle for independence. This particular section includes a wealth of visual documentations, 67 of which form the current exhibit under the title “Illustrations & representations of the Greek-speaking world – from the 18th to the 21st Century”.