The island of Hydra is of course worthy of note thanks to its idyllic waters, quaint stacked housing and elegant marina, but Josh Hickey is here to let you know that the Greek island is so much more than that with the launch of his eclectic initiative, Hydra Book Club.

A cultural celebration that melts an exhibition, bookstore and community into one joyous affair, the initiative aims to shed light on literacy born out of the tranquil island as early as the 1930s. A space from which local artists can openly and proudly display their works, the book club is a chance not only for incomparable literature to be admired from, but also a space where the wonders of friendship and community spirit can be revelled in. And, with the club taking a tour around the world, from everywhere from New York to Bodrum, it is safe to say that Hydra is set to capture the attention of a global audience – a deserved reception, we might add.

When speaking on the project, Hickey explains, “More than a bookstore, this project is about friendship. The literature presented is the fruit of deep, lifelong, often spiritual friendships between artists and writers, visitors and locals, and these friendships remain the core anchor for most of us here together on the island today. ”

Head below to see where the Hydra Book Club will be travelling to next and keep update by following their Instagram, @hydrabookclub…