Description:

The purpose of Dionysia was to create a unique dining experience that merges the rich narratives of Greek mythology with the social culture of sharing food and drink. Recognising that many meaningful interactions among young people take place around meals, I have designed a winery and restaurant inspired by Dionysus, the Greek God of Wine. This setting not only offers a space for socialisation but also serves as a platform for sparking conversations about Greek mythology.

My interest in Greek mythology started with the Percy Jackson series, which made the ancient stories feel relevant and exciting by placing them in a modern context. Over time, I deepened my understanding of Ancient Greek culture through school, personal research, and museum visits. I’ve found that mythology is seeing a revival in popular culture through retellings that give familiar characters new emotional depth. I wanted to explore how I could contribute to this conversation by making these stories more accessible in everyday life.

Dionysia brings mythology to life through carefully considered design. The wine label itself draws inspiration from classic Greek art, featuring an illustration of Dionysus riding a leopard. The depictions of Dionysus climbing, leaping, and prancing add a dynamic sense of movement across the bottles, reflecting his role as the wandering god of wine and revelry. The colour palette takes inspiration from Ancient Greek terracotta vases, while the typography is reminiscent of Ancient Greek inscriptions, grounding the design in historical authenticity while maintaining a clean, contemporary feel.

In Greek mythology the leopard represents the wild and untamed primal forces. The dual faces used in the logo icon represent the duality of wine drinkers- the refined and regal wine connoisseur versus the uninhibited partygoer. These references reinforce the mythological theme in a subtle but memorable way.

Each bottle includes a tag with a short myth explaining the origins of wine, offering casual storytelling moments for consumers. The food and drink menus continue this approach with interchangeable cards that detail different myths. These swappable stories allow patrons to read and discuss the different myths, inviting conversations that deepen understanding and add a layer of cultural enrichment to their visit.

“Dionysia” ultimately aspires to be more than just a wine brand; it’s a cultural touch-point that combines sophistication with education, blending enjoyment with discovery. By introducing Greek mythology in this immersive way, “Dionysia” enables a deeper understanding of ancient culture, prompting consumers to question, explore, and connect with our shared heritage.