Evangelos Moustakas, the celebrated Greek sculptor best known for creating the statue of Alexander the Great and the monument to the National Resistance on Thessaloniki's waterfront, has died at the age of 95. His death marks the end of a prolific career that spanned more than seven decades and left an indelible mark on Greece's cultural landscape through his distinctive blend of ancient and contemporary sculptural styles.

Born in Piraeus, Moustakas displayed his artistic and creative talents from an early age. His professional journey began at a porcelain manufacturing company, where he gained valuable experience working with various materials. This early exposure to craftsmanship would later influence his approach to sculpture and his mastery of different artistic techniques.

Moustakas received his formal artistic education at the National School of Fine Arts of Greece from 1950 to 1953, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Michalis Tombros. His exceptional talent earned him a scholarship to continue his studies at the prestigious Florence Academy of Fine Arts from 1960 to 1963. During his time in Italy, he expanded his artistic repertoire by studying engraving and copper casting techniques, skills that would prove invaluable throughout his career.

In 1963, Moustakas achieved international recognition when he collaborated with renowned architect Walter Gropius on the production of decorative reliefs for the University of Baghdad. This high-profile project demonstrated his ability to work on large-scale architectural sculptures and established his reputation beyond Greece's borders. His artistic excellence was further validated in 1968 when he won the gold medal at the Alexandria Biennale, one of the most prestigious art competitions in the Mediterranean region.

Throughout his career, Moustakas maintained a diverse professional portfolio that extended beyond sculpture. He worked extensively in art restoration, helping to preserve Greece's cultural heritage for future generations. Additionally, he served as a secondary school teacher, sharing his knowledge and passion for art with young students and inspiring the next generation of Greek artists.

According to his profile at the National Gallery, the human figure served as the central axis of Moustakas's artistic work. His sculptures drew inspiration from both personal experiences and significant social and historical events, creating pieces that resonated with viewers on multiple levels. Whether working on commissioned public monuments or pursuing free artistic inspiration, his work was characterized by remarkable diversity and innovation.

Moustakas's distinctive artistic style successfully blended elements of ancient Greek sculpture with contemporary approaches, creating a unique aesthetic that honored Greece's classical heritage while embracing modern artistic sensibilities. One of his most notable innovations was his treatment of void or negative space as an integral part of his sculptures, a technique that added depth and complexity to his three-dimensional works.

The sculptor's legacy lives on through his numerous public works, particularly the iconic monuments in Thessaloniki that have become integral parts of the city's cultural identity. His contributions to Greek art and culture represent a bridge between the country's ancient artistic traditions and its modern creative expressions, ensuring his influence will continue to inspire future generations of artists and art lovers alike.