Internationally renowned sculptress Natalia Mela has passed away at the age of 96, as announced on Monday.

In a statement of condolences, the Greek Ministry of Culture said Mela was an unconventional sculptor and a dynamic personality with exhibitions in Greece and abroad. Mela was also the granddaughter of historic military figure Pavlos Melas and wife of architect Aris Konstantinidis.

Natalia Mela came from a lineage of politicians, merchants and army leaders.

In March 2011, the Athens Academy presented Natalia Mela with the Excellence in Fine Arts award for her contribution to Greek sculpture through her “pioneering and expressive work”, says the message of the Ministry of Culture.

Natalia Mela’s funeral will take place on Wednesday, April 17 at Athens 1st Cemetery, at 2 pm.