Overview
BIOS is an independent, grassroots urban cultural organization based in Athens, Greece, dedicated to exploring urban culture through contemporary art, creative practice, education, and civic engagement. Operating across four interconnected venues in central Athens, BIOS serves as a platform for experimentation, dialogue, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Its key facility, Romantso—located in the Gerani neighborhood within the historic printing plant of the former Romantso magazine—functions as both an incubator for creative industry startups and a multi-venue cultural center. BIOS is also a founding member of the European Creative Hubs Network (ECHN).
Objectives
BIOS aims to support emerging artists, designers, researchers, and cultural practitioners while creating conditions for new artistic practices and creative communities to thrive. The organization seeks to explore the complexities and possibilities of contemporary urban life by bridging diverse art forms, civic engagement, and creative entrepreneurship. Through its coworking facilities, event spaces, and self-directed residency program, BIOS / Romantso works to foster flexible ways to work, connect, and grow within a living creative ecosystem.
Programs / Opportunities
- The Romantso Residency: A self-directed, fee-based residency program open year-round, offering private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, access to hub shared spaces, free admission to all BIOS cultural events, and presentation opportunities (such as open studios, exhibitions, talks, or performances).
- Creative Hub & Coworking Spaces: Flexible working environments, independent desks, and shared spaces designed for creative industry startups, freelancers, and cultural practitioners.
- Multi-Venue Cultural Programming & Space Hire: Five distinct event spaces—including the Romantso Cafe, a ground-floor main stage, a modifiable basement venue, and a first-floor exhibition space—hosting daily public events, screenings, workshops, live performances, and exhibitions.
Target Community
- Multidisciplinary Creatives & Researchers: Visual artists, designers, architects, writers, curators, media makers, and independent researchers seeking research time, studio workspace, or community immersion in Athens.
- Creative Startups & Entrepreneurs: Small creative businesses, cultural organizations, and independent professionals within the European and local Greek creative industries.
