Greek Communications Professor Embraces Moscow Life

Originally from Greece, Pános Kompatsiáris was attracted to join the Higher School of Economics because of the university’s reputation for exceptional working conditions and fostering career development. Having spent the last ten years in a variety of cities, including Edinburgh and Berlin, Professor Kompatsiáris brings his background in economics, cultural studies and art theory to his current position as Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Communications, Media, and Design at HSE.

‘My professional interests include publishing journal articles and books, organizing university courses as well as giving lectures in symposia, conferences and other events’, said Professor Kompatsiáris. ‘I have been cooperating with Professor Yannis Mylonas, co-authoring several papers and co-organizing several events, as well with Professor Ilya Kiriya with whom we organized an international conference last year in St. Petersburg’.

Professor Kompatsiáris, whose work stands at the intersection of art theory, cultural studies and media theory, has published on contemporary art biennials in Europe, work and artistic labour in the creative industries. It is his academic experience that guides his advice for international newcomers to Moscow.

‘My advice would be to attempt learning the Russian culture, language and way of life, as well as embrace the dynamism and possibilities in terms of art, culture and intercultural exchange that Moscow can offer’, he says, noting how much he has enjoyed his time in the city. ‘My experience living in Moscow has been very pleasant; I enjoy eating in Georgian and Italian restaurants and the atmosphere of cafes and jazz clubs around Pokrovka Street and Kitay Gorod’.

Anna Chernyakhovskaya, specially for HSE News service