Artist in conversation: Theodora Stougiannou
“It is the flow that unifies all my paintings -- the flow of the ley lines, the flow of time, the flow of reality and chaos. Always eternally flowing, with neither end nor beginning”
Theodora Stougiannou is an artist whose paintings transport viewers into a world of ancient tales, fantasy realms, and mythical wonders. With each stroke of the brush, Theodora creates captivating stories that unfold on the canvas, inviting the audience to embark on a journey of imagination.
Guided by a unique artistic vision, Theodora combines delicate linework, abstract forms inspired by natural and mythical creatures, and vibrant colors to bring her narratives to life. Her artwork radiates a dream-like quality, where every element seems to whisper secrets waiting to be discovered. Within her vivid creations, oddities and strangeness exist without the need for explanation, allowing the viewer to embrace the magical and surreal aspects of her work.
Theodora Stougiannou's paintings are more than just images; they are windows into a realm where ancient times intertwine with the fantastical. Through her masterful use of linework, abstract forms, and a vibrant color palette, she captures the essence of mythology and the depths of imagination. As you immerse yourself in her art, prepare to be transported to a world where stories come to life, and dreams become tangible.
What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
I took art classes in both modern art and byzantine iconography when I was younger, along with art history etc. I stopped producing much art right along the time I got into medical school in 2010 because I could not find the time; however, I started to show interest again at around 2017, when I was finished with some of my studies. My style developed the most this year I think; due to some difficulties I had to deal with, all the emotions I felt during this time just poured into my work.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I love mythology and fantasy, and how certain fantastical figures might appear in different cultures, and sometimes symbolize different things; for example, I like portraying dragons, and they have different symbolism in far eastern cultures, middle eastern cultures, Mesoamerican cultures etc. I also like to draw inspiration from the natural world, like astronomy (nebulas, stars, constellations) and animals; for example, the form of the betta fish is one I especially love to portray.
Can you tell us about your process of creating artwork that tells stories of ancient times, fantasy, and mythology? How do you incorporate linework, abstract forms inspired by natural or mythical creatures, and vivid colors to bring these stories to life?
Well, for most of these, I like to tell stories based on my knowledge of various mythological and theological constructs.
At first, I would incorporate the linework into structures that were similar in form, for example fish fins or wings, but now it has started to seep into other aspects of the forms I draw, like landscapes and clouds. I guess I love the linework, because it is also therapeutic for me to create; I love the feeling of water/paint gliding on the canvas as I create the lines.
I create forms based on natural beings, but I do not like to completely depict them as they would appear naturally- I want to create a form of abstract feel that looks almost as if matter around us is fluid and can easily change at any moment, into something else – a transmutation of sorts.
I like the vivid colours, but I also like dark blue hues and the contrast between the vivid light colours and the dark blue; I like creating the feel of light (i.e., the lighter colours) passing around and casting shadows around. I guess another reason why I love dark blue colours and I use them so much as of late, is because I find them both calming and mysterious; like a night sky filled with stars.
Your artwork seems to have a dreamlike quality, where oddities and strangeness require no further explanation. Could you share with us how you use intricate, flowing lines and abstract forms to convey specific ideas or feelings in your paintings?
I love telling stories and I love creating weird and magical worlds; I also love creating things that will look both captivating but also strange, something that would not be easy to process at first; for example, a giant fish gliding in the sky, while a desert exists below it, and other strange and beautiful scapes one could only find in a dream.
There’s no need to provide an explanation; it could be science, it could be magic, it could be a dream. The point is to just let it be, since knowing what it is would not in any way affect its message; an instance of dreamlike tranquility.
Can you discuss a specific piece or project that challenged you as an artist, and how you overcome those challenges?
I think a most recent challenge I faced was trying to find a way to use watercolors on a canvas. At first, I would just use plain canvases; for some colours the result would look good, but for others not as much. Then I discovered watercolor ground and it seemed to help me work with watercolours in canvases as well!
Another challenge I came across was to somehow find a way to connect my artistic style from a couple years ago with the style I have today; it did change a bit, mostly with regards to the techniques, themes, as well as the type of medium I use. I also recently started to use inks and felt that I was leaving acrylics behind, as well as watercolours; so, I decided to mix it all together! Sometimes the acrylics will be used last, as emphasis, and sometimes they will be used as the base; in any case, I like to incorporate art mediums I have used before in the next iteration of my artistic expression, instead of just switching to different mediums.
How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?
I follow many other artists on Instagram, and I am also part of the Visual Artists Association in the UK, which provides excellent advice, workshops, community, and relevant news for various art opportunities.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
While I like to listen to what people think of my art, with regards to improving on techniques and such, most of the time I just do the things I want to do anyway! My creations are mine, and I want them to be my authentic expression- for example, many people might prefer some of my older creations, where the colours were brighter or happier, but I will always make the art that makes me feel truthful to my myself the most.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
I have had instances where I could not finish a painting for months because I simply did not know how to finish it- I guess whenever I have a creative block, I just take a break and do a different activity to refresh my perspective.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
Exhibiting at the Holy Art Gallery feels like a really exciting and unique experience for many reasons; the fact that I can exhibit in a physical space without having to ship my physical canvases over, the fact that some of the exhibitions are shown simultaneously in two cities. I also love the feel of the gallery and think it fits with my artistic style.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
I would like to create more paintings, and artwork that will portray locations and stories in an imaginary world/ planet of my own creation, named “the planet of colours”! I do love combining some of my paintings with stories and would really like to try and create a mix of stories and paintings in the future!