Swallow, 2017. BILLY HASSELL. Lithograph on paper. Courtesy the artist and Foltz Fine Art, Houston.
Today, as I walked through the galleries of our new Spring exhibitions, I came upon this print by artist Billy Hassell- and was reminded of a special celebration that takes place this time of year in the country of Greece. The traditions of this celebration are some of my most cherished memories from my time living on the Greek coast as a foreign exchange student in my teens.
Just as our western spring begins in March, the season arrives to Greece in ‘Martios.’
Each year at this time, the change in season is marked by a special environmental signifier that has become an important part of Greek culture.
This is the return of the swallows, or Helidonia.
During March, the Greek barn swallow returns from its winter travels to make their nests across the country. The dark-colored birds fill the sky with song upon their return, and proceed to make nests of mud under awnings of homes and buildings throughout town.
Instead of seeing the influx of birds as a nuisance, the Greek people embrace the return of the swallows as a cultural symbol of hope and new beginnings (It is actually considered to be lucky if a swallow chooses your home or business to build its nest!)
For thousands of years, this seasonal signifier has been the cause of festivals and celebration.
Children process through the streets with wooden spinners, singing carols and taking collections for charity. Poetry, music and artwork are shared. It is a time of community renewal.
One special tradition of Helidinosmata is the Marti bracelet- a lovely family tradition and gift to the swallows. At the end of February, parents tie a special red and white bracelet onto the wrist of their children, which is said to bring luck in avoiding sun burns in the coming warmer weather.
As parents tie the Marti on their child’s wrist they may recite the ancient phrase “This bracelet I made will protect my child from the burning March Sun”
Children in Greece wear their Marti all during the month of March, and then cut them off before Easter. They then hang them from branches or bushes for the swallows to find- which adds lovely color and texture to the many nests that dot each building.
This is one of my favorite cultural celebrations that honors the relationship between humans and nature that surrounds us. It remains one of my favorite memories from my life overseas, and it’s definitely made me look at the messy Mud-Martins under my Texas porch with a bit more affection.
Erin Whitmore
Education Director