About

This research will explore the Greek feminist magazine Poli Gynaikon (City of Women, 1982–1985), examining its role as part of a wider network of feminist ideas, graphic design, and countercultural movements. The magazine emerged in the 1980s, a time when Greece was undergoing democratisation after the fall of a military dictatorship (1967–1974). This period also marked Greece's efforts to meet the requirements for joining the European Economic Community (EEC). 

During this time, a diverse feminist movement emerged in Greece, focusing on issues such as family law reforms - a key prerequisite for Greece’s EEC accession. The movement included both groups aligned with political parties and more radical, independent factions, all of which produced different kinds of publications. Poli Gynaikon stood out, with a design and approach that contrasted with the styles of magazines tied to political parties. Its low-cost, bold design, created by graphic designer Leonidas Christakis, drew inspiration from countercultural magazines like Amazon Quarterly, a feminist and lesbian publication from Australia. It was also influenced by magazines from the UK (Spare Rib, Zero), Spain (Ajoblanco), Germany (Galgenvogel) and others from which it translated and adapted articles. 

This research will focus on Poli Gynaikon’s influence within the feminist movement at large. By examining its content and the issues it raised, the study will highlight the magazine's role in shaping feminist discourse. It will explore how Poli Gynaikon connected with other radical publications, especially through the use of design technologies like rub-on letters and typewriters. Through interviews with those involved in its creation, as well as archival research, the study aims to show the magazine's vital role within the broader feminist movement, helping to spread new ideas about gender and society.