The Collectors: Irene Y. Panagopoulos
The philanthropist launched her namesake art space in 2025, with works in her extensive collection covering the 16th century to the present day
Irene Y. Panagopoulos is driven by a deep personal fascination with discovering new cultural connections and global stories. Born in London and based in Greece, the collector and philanthropist launched her namesake art space in June 2025 in a venue on the Athenian Riviera that functions as an exhibition setting, research archive, library, and workspace. Covering the 16th century to present day, the works in her extensive amassment favor women artists, the Greek diaspora, and the cultural exchanges that have shaped the Mediterranean. “Every work opens the door to another story, another culture, another moment in history,” says Panagopoulos. “Whether I’m looking at a Renaissance painting or a contemporary installation, I’m reminded that art is part of one continuous conversation stretching across centuries.”
Living with art: Panagopoulos recently added works by Cypriot artist Haris Epaminonda, Greek artist duo Kalos&Klio, and American sculptor Lynda Benglis to her collection. “But every acquisition must earn its place by continuing to surprise me. The works I treasure most are the ones that reveal something different each time I encounter them.”
Up next: Opening October 8 at The Hellenic Centre in London, “Revisiting: Fernweh, or Nostalgia for Unknown Lands” will be the debut international show for the collection.
A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2026 Late Fall Issue in the section “The Collectors.” Subscribe to the magazine.