BBeyond was a guest of the annual DESTE event once again this year 2026.

The exhibition, Generation X, featured selected works from Dakis Joannou’s private collection, curated by Massimiliano Gioni with Calvin Wang and Taeyi Kim.

Maria Joannou Untitled, 2021

Ever the agent provocateur of the art world, Joannou didn’t disappoint. On entering the exhibition space, guests were treated to a video of a live nude male and a central, full-size sculpture of a male and female apes standing upright, Masters of the Universe, 2000 by Tim Noble & Sue Webster.

Tim Noble & Sue Webster, Masters of the Universe, 2000

Progressing through a series of rooms, guests were able to enjoy a juxtaposition of thoroughly modern works v. more traditional ones, as well as a number of installations.

Kai Althoff, Untitled, 2010

The Generation X exhibition was perhaps more reflective than previous ones have been. It may well have been titled “a brief glimpse into the collector’s mind”.

Matthew Barney and Elizabeth Peyton, Blood of Two, 2009

The reception on the roof terrace of the foundation building gave collectors, art world professionals and artists, many returning from Basel, the opportunity to reconnect over drinks and a buffet dinner, as is standard for the DESTE receptions.

We skipped the events on Hydra with some sadness because the DESTE/Joannou gatherings are unique in every aspect, and especially because they are personally hosted by Dakis and Lietta Joannou themselves.

Kaari Upson, Big Tooth (Dream), 2017

Joannou, one of the most significant collectors of all times, remains the embodiment of Ars gratia artis.

Urs Fischer, What If the Phone Rings, 2003

He defines and constantly redefines the very concept of collecting through engagement with the artist and delights in sharing his collection with art lovers.