Georgios Athanasakis is a woodcarver from Greece. From October 27 to November 1, 2025, the 16th "Yiding Cup" Woodcarving Skills Competition was held in Putian, China, where 40 woodcarving contestants from across the country reached the final. Georgios Athanasakis was invited as a guest demonstrator for the purpose of facilitating cross-culture dialogue and mutual learning through the universal language of art.
 
Symbols of Ancient Greek Culture was created on site by Georgios Athanasakis. This artwork features two major cultural symbols: Hermes and the Ancient Ionic Column, presenting the harmonious beauty of Greek mythology and history.
 
Hermes was an Olympian god, the son of Zeus and Maia (daughter of Atlas). He served as the messenger of the gods because of his great speed. He was considered the protector of travelers, commerce, and wealth. His symbols were the caduceus and winged sandals. The caduceus was a wooden staff entwined with two snakes facing each other, with two wings above their heads. Today, Hermes remains a symbol of postal services, and his name is often used for streets with many shops.

The Ancient Ionic Column is one of the most representative of the three classical orders of ancient Greece. Originating in the mid-6th century BCE, it is a key form of ancient Greek architectural art.