Reviving Ancient Greek Art in Olive Oil Packaging

Antonia Skaraki's Ionia: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Antonia Skaraki, a renowned designer, has taken inspiration from the rich history of Greek olive oil production. The ancient Greeks used to paint and design each olive oil amphora separately. Skaraki has revived this tradition in a modern context, creating a unique design concept for extra virgin olive oil packaging. Each of the 2000 bottles produced in a production line boasts a different pattern, making every bottle unique.

The Ionia design is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating a connection with the consumer. The packaging is designed to appeal to culinary enthusiasts and consumers with a deep appreciation for the origins of olive oil. The incorporation of ancient symbols in a simple, redesigned manner, without spoiling the authenticity of the original olive oil vases, was a challenge that Skaraki and her team managed to overcome.

The project was designed during the first semester of 2016 in Athens, Greece. The design team included Yannis Xenakis, Adreas Deskas, Valia Alousi, and Vicky Panagiotopoulou, with Forlabels Printing assisting in the production. The design process involved extensive research into geometric shapes, amphorae, vases, and motifs, all of which are reflected in the final design.

The Ionia design stands out for its unique properties. Skaraki explains that it's not a vicious circle but a straight developing creative line. Every production line creates 2000 different designs infinitely. This approach to design and production makes Ionia a truly unique product in the market.

The Ionia design was awarded the Silver A' Packaging Design Award in 2017. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to the artistic skill and technical excellence that the Ionia design embodies.

In conclusion, Antonia Skaraki's Ionia design is a celebration of Greek history and tradition, brought to life in a modern context. It is a testament to the power of design to evoke a sense of history and culture, while also appealing to contemporary tastes and sensibilities.