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Despite the proliferation of shops displaying their wares on the street that can make Fira seem like a souk, you probably will not be too tempted by the goods on offer. T-shirts and cheap trinkets are, sadly, the norm, and shops selling the fine jewelry and crafts for which the island was known in the early days of tourism are rare these days. With a little searching, however, you will come upon some treasures.
The AK Art Gallery, in a converted flour mill, is the oldest on Santorini and was founded by internationally acclaimed artists Christoforos Asimis and his wife Eleni Kollaitou. He specializes in ethereal images from his home island of Santorini, and her work encompasses elegant jewelry, sculpture, and ceramics. Just outside town is the AK Art Foundation, an impressive space that houses exhibitions and cultural events.
In the shadow of the Orthodox Cathedral, Koukla is home to simple, modern creative jewelry from a selection of Greek designers. Individual and quirky pieces abound, and the nonpushy owners will help you select a unique memento of your trip.
There's an exuberance to the work of Yorgos Kypris, accentuated in his gallery on a bright airy perch high above the caldera. In his striking sculptural creations in glass, clay, metal, and other natural materials, seabirds flock, fish swirl in schools, and sharks loom out of the wall; some designs are also available as jewelry. The artist also has an exhibition space in an old winery in Mesaria that hosts local and international talents.
Objets d'art are made from highly polished semiprecious stones and glow with color and form. Pantelis and Nikola Kaloteraki can also create jewelry in the stone of your choice. Vases, sculptures, and many other distinctive pieces fill the shop, which has been a presence in Santorini for almost four decades.
