GIANNIS GAVALAS
Local Hydriot, beloved retired Merchant Captain and accomplished Poet
A Poetic Morning | Saturday 4 October 2025
Giannis co-hosted our Poetic Morning of Readings alongside ArtCinema Poetry Resident and Patron John L. Holgerson, presenting work from his latest collection, published later in 2025.
Greek poet Michelle Houwers provided English translations for visiting guests, allowing Giannis’ work to be shared with a wider international audience.
Born on Hydra, Giannis Gavalas is a retired merchant marine captain, poet, writer and musician whose work is deeply connected to the island’s maritime and cultural life.
A member of the Greek Writers’ Union, he has published numerous collections of poetry and prose, including Marine Vibrations (1995), Marine Disturbance (1999) and Hydriot Achievements (2024). His writing is also represented in Hydra’s Historical Archives Museum, and he continued his literary work with a new poetry collection published in late 2025.