Art & Culture

Vera Dan, born in Cluj Napoca, Romania, in 1956, is a name that resonates with the essence of artistic talent and creativity. Her story is one of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.

As a child, Vera discovered her love for drawing, setting the stage for her remarkable artistic journey. Her passion led her to the High School of Fine Arts, where she delved into the world of visual expression, dedicating herself to honing her skills.

Her dedication bore fruit as she clinched significant awards, marking her as a rising star in the art world. Her artistic journey continued to flourish as she pursued a bachelor’s degree at the Institute of Arts and Design in Cluj, specializing in the Pedagogy of Arts, where she graduated with the distinction of “Magna Cum Laude.”

Vera Dan’s art knows no boundaries. She has graced numerous exhibitions, both in her homeland and abroad. Her work has been showcased in prestigious art capitals like Madrid, Italy, France, and various other countries across the globe.

Today, Vera Dan is honored to participate for the third time in this splendid international art showcase. Her art speaks volumes, transcending language and culture, and touching the hearts of art enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us in celebrating Vera Dan’s incredible journey, where every stroke of her brush tells a story, and every canvas is a window into her soul. Stay tuned for more glimpses into the world of this talented Romanian artist.

Tanya Ivanova, a name that resonates with literary and artistic brilliance, was born in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 1972. Since 1995, she has called Barcelona, Spain, her home, where she has not only bridged languages as a translator but also emerged as a prolific writer, poet, and artist. Her journey is a testament to a boundless passion for culture, literature, and the arts.

Tanya’s academic pursuits took her through a diverse range of disciplines. She graduated from the New Bulgarian University in Sofia, majoring in Cultural Studies and Traceology. Her linguistic talents led her to earn a second degree as a Spanish Translator. Further enhancing her academic repertoire, she obtained a Master’s degree in Cultural Tourism from NBU and is currently pursuing a second Master’s degree in Egyptology.

From a young age, Tanya’s inquisitive spirit led her to explore the world. She became a devoted traveler, delving into the depths of ancient cultures and drawing inspiration from the tapestry of human history. Her journeys across lands and civilizations have not only fueled her creativity but also enriched her unique perspective on art and literature.

Tanya’s passion for literature ignited early in her life. At the tender age of eight, she penned her first poem, setting the stage for a remarkable literary career. Over the years, she has written 12 books in Bulgarian, spanning novels, poetry collections, short stories, and a children’s book. Her literary works have transcended borders, with translations in Spanish, English, and Serbian languages.

Her literary prowess has garnered international recognition and accolades. Notable awards include the Second Prize at the VI International Festival “Melnik Poetry Evenings” in Bulgaria (2015), the First Prize at the prestigious VI Literary Competition “Rain of Letters” in Toledo, Spain (2020), and the Special Prize of the Confederation of Bulgarian Writers for her poetic and artistic mastery (2022).

Tanya’s artistry extends beyond words. She is also an accomplished artist, showcasing her creations in individual and group exhibitions across various countries. Her artistic journey is marked by a deep connection to her surroundings and an innate ability to express emotions through her brushstrokes.

Her influence in the literary and artistic realms has earned her recognition as an Ambassador of The Eurasian Creative Guild, based in London, England. This honor reflects her commitment to promoting creativity and cultural exchange on a global scale.

Tanya Ivanova’s remarkable journey continues to unfold, with her recent participation in literary festivals and exhibitions across Europe. Her work serves as a testament to the enduring power of art and literature to transcend borders and inspire the human spirit.

In a world that often celebrates specialization, Tanya Ivanova’s multidisciplinary approach stands as a shining example of how diverse passions can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

In the realm of artistry, where colors and lyrics converge to create magic on canvas and paper, there exists a creator whose work transcends boundaries and touches the very soul of humanity. Meet Stella Chaviaropoulou, known affectionately as “Tethys ART” or “Stella CaviART,” an expressionist artist whose journey through life is as colorful and vibrant as her art.

Born in the enchanting city of Istanbul and nurtured in the cultural richness of Thessaloniki, Stella Chaviaropoulou’s artistic odyssey is marked by a deep connection with diverse cultures, people of all colors, religions, and ethnicities. Her spirit, like her art, knows no boundaries, embracing the world’s myriad hues and harmonies.

Stella’s linguistic prowess is as impressive as her artistic talents. Fluent in both English and Turkish, she possesses a multifaceted educational background. She holds a degree as a Kindergarten Teacher, Theologian, and Private Secretary, a testament to her insatiable thirst for knowledge and her determination to explore diverse avenues of life.

As a mother of two lovely daughters, Stella’s artistry is not confined to the canvas; it extends to the very fabric of her life. While her physical presence graces the city of Thessaloniki, her heart and soul belong to the boundless Cosmos. It’s a cosmic connection that fuels her creativity and ignites the flames of her imagination.

Her artistic journey began in childhood, enchanted by the ethereal aura and vivid colors of the Bosphorus and Imvros island in the embrace of the Aegean Sea. It was here that she first discovered her love for the interplay of colors and the poetic resonance of words. Her art and poetry reflect this deep-rooted connection with the natural world and the diverse tapestry of human experiences.

Stella’s poems, like her art, have garnered recognition far and wide. Her verses can be found in Poetry Group Collections, a testament to her ability to capture the essence of life and emotions through words. Additionally, her work has found a home in the Club for UNESCO of Arts Literature and Sciences of Greece. In 2019, she unveiled her first Poetry Collection, “Between the Earth and Heaven,” a poetic journey that invites readers to explore the realms of the heart and soul.

As we delve into the enchanting world of Stella Chaviaropoulou, we are reminded that art is not just about colors on a canvas or words on a page; it’s a reflection of the human experience, a bridge that connects diverse cultures, and a testament to the boundless creativity of the human spirit. Stella Chaviaropoulou, the expressionist-creator through colors and lyrics, continues to inspire and illuminate our world with her extraordinary talent and unyielding passion for art and poetry.

Shura Oyarce, a remarkable artist hailing from Lima, has a unique mission in the world of art: to capture the ungraspable, render the invisible visible, and give “a voice to silence.” Renowned critic, journalist, and sociologist Alberto Pellegrino beautifully sums up her work.

Her art invites observers into a world of chromatic and fantastical forms, often evoking memories of childhood. It’s an art that emerges from the depths, bringing forth impulses and emotions that resist easy rationalization.

Shura Oyarce Yuzzelli, born in Lima and an architecture graduate from the University of Florence, has a multifaceted career. Besides being an artist, she’s a professor of Art History. Her artistic journey has taken her to exhibitions across Italy, Peru, Slovenia, Russia, Turkey, Romania, and France.

Currently, Shura wears two hats – that of an architect and an artist. Her studio-atelier in San Severino Marche is a hub of creativity where she explores various mediums, including cement, acrylics, collage, and reclaimed fabrics, transforming them into something entirely new.

Her art has found its place in both private and public collections, including the Peruvian Embassy in Rome, Cif di Macerata, Sferisterio di Macerata, Erzican University in Turkey, and the Duomo San Ginesio.

Shura Oyarce’s art is more than just a visual experience; it’s a journey into the unseen, an exploration of the ineffable, and a celebration of the power of artistic expression to give life to the silent and the hidden.

Rosa Pappa-Vezirtzi, born in Athens, is a versatile artist whose journey through the realm of art has been nothing short of remarkable. Her artistic repertoire spans a multitude of mediums, from pastels to oils, watercolors, pencils, frescoes, acrylics, mixed techniques, tempera, and even ceramics.

Her artistic education began at the Doxiadi School, where she honed her skills in decoration before delving into the intricate world of iconography, encompassing frescoes and incising techniques. Her passion for ceramics and painting soon followed.

Rosa’s artistic journey is a testament to her dedication and creativity. She has participated in numerous group exhibitions and has been showcasing her works since 1984. Her talent has not gone unnoticed, as she has received recognition both at the national and international levels.

Notably, Rosa Pappa-Vezirtzi is included in the Encyclopedia of Greek Painters “Melissa” and the international publication “Colors in the Greek Light” featuring Greek painters. She is a member of the Chamber of Fine Arts of Greece (E.E.T.E.), the Club for UNESCO, and the Cultural Attica Club of Glyfada.

Her commitment to art extends beyond her own practice. Since 1992, she has been sharing her knowledge and passion for painting through teaching. Furthermore, in 1994, she expanded her artistic horizons to include ceramics and sculpture.

Rosa Pappa-Vezirtzi’s artistic journey is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and unwavering commitment to the world of art. Her ability to master various mediums is a testament to her talent, and her impact on the art world is undeniable.

Her works continue to inspire and captivate audiences, making her a respected figure in the Greek art scene and beyond. Rosa’s journey through the world of art serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and a celebration of the power of creativity and dedication.

Roberto Bergonzo, whose origins are partly Mitteleuropean, was born in Turin. Defined by critics as an eclectic artist who has successfully ventured into painting, set design, industrial design, and interior architecture, Roberto’s creative journey has been a remarkable one. In recent years, he’s left the city behind, relocating his studio to the picturesque landscapes of Alta Langa, where he can also indulge in his passion for the piano and classical music, essential elements that enrich his artistic soul.

His artistic journey began during his adolescence when he started painting. Quickly, he gained recognition in exhibitions and received art awards. After completing his university studies, he taught art for several years. Later, he held the position of art director at an advertising and marketing agency. While pursuing these diverse career paths, he never abandoned painting. In fact, he began his independent art career, working on projects for renowned companies in various sectors, from aviation to consumer goods.

Parallel to his professional endeavors, Roberto’s artistic style evolved, much like many artists. He transitioned from classical figurative to a pseudo-expressionist style. In the 1990s, he developed a more complex technique that critics describe as post-technological surrealism. His works started to brim with color, symbols, and references, reflecting his engagement with the ethical and environmental issues of our time. Despite tackling such profound themes, his paintings never express negativity; instead, they embody his unwavering faith in humanity’s potential for redemption.

A significant chapter of Roberto’s career unfolded when he decided to devote himself exclusively to painting. His vast experience working with large corporations naturally led him to industrial art. His paintings began to interpret corporate philosophies and convey clients’ messages through allegorical and science-fiction-inspired visuals.

In recent years, he has developed a passion for making art more accessible. Drawing from his background in interior design, he launched a new artistic line called U-ART: “your art,” art that represents and belongs to you. U-ART offers unique artworks that enhance living spaces by harmonizing with their lines, colors, volumes, and atmospheres.

These one-of-a-kind paintings, personally conceived and painted by the artist, can also be commissioned to meet individual preferences. U-ART’s philosophy is to bring art into our daily lives, making it economically and aesthetically accessible while retaining its distinctive style.

U-ART has introduced a distinctive technique that’s instantly recognizable. For instance, the artworks featuring portraits or figures have a unique characteristic: they appear ghostly and in motion. This dynamic quality, unfortunately not visible in static photographic reproductions, makes the painting perpetually dynamic. It changes throughout the day as light moves across its surface.

Roberto’s latest technique, which involves negative/positive, glossy/matte effects, results from his quest for unique visual experiences. It’s an attempt to convey a poetic essence through transfigured images that prioritize atmosphere and suggestion over mere representation.

Other works are exclusively geometric, featuring almost fluorescent metallic lines and compositions. Some paintings are monochromatic, with the artist often using gold, silver, and copper leaf laminates to enrich them and create unique lighting effects.

Throughout his artistic journey, Roberto Bergonzo’s unwavering focus remains on color, its ability to refract light, and its harmonious interplay with form. His art is a testament to his unique approach to creative expression, making the ordinary extraordinary and art an integral part of our everyday lives.

In the world of art, there are those who capture life’s essence, not with a camera, but with strokes of color on canvas. Shana Gokul, a remarkable artist, has embarked on this creative journey, painting life in its most honest form.

Shana’s artistic perspective is deeply rooted in pragmatism. She doesn’t chase fleeting moments or romanticize the mundane. Instead, she seeks the beauty in the countryside, where distant hills and lush greenery stretch as far as the eye can see. These serene landscapes often find their way onto her canvas, portraying nature’s raw, unfiltered beauty.

Before Shana’s life as an artist, she donned the hat of a computer engineer, working on projects related to GSLV launches at ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization). Her work was bound to the stars, but her heart belonged to the art of earthly beauty. With unwavering determination, she chose to pursue her first love, dedicating herself entirely to the world of art.

To refine her artistic skills, Shana embarked on a certification course at Chitrakala Parishath Bangalore. But her quest for knowledge didn’t stop there. She actively participated in workshops conducted by renowned artists like Eby Joseph and Sunil Linus De. These experiences broadened her artistic horizons, providing fresh perspectives and techniques.

Shana’s paintings resonate with the elements of nature and its ever-changing moods. Weather and climate play pivotal roles in her artwork, as she strives to capture the essence of serenity in nature’s finest moments. Her portfolio showcases beautiful landscapes, lush forests, and mesmerizing waterfalls, each painting telling a unique story of the natural world. The crashing waves of the magnificent seas also hold a special place in her heart, inspiring many of her creations.

What’s truly admirable about Shana is her fearlessness in exploring various art forms and mediums. While she initially ventured into the world of art through oil painting, she has since broadened her artistic palette, embracing acrylic and watercolors. Each medium offers a unique avenue for her to express her deep passion for art.

Shana’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed. Her work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and shows, both in India and abroad. From Chitra Santhe in Bangalore to Art for Nature in Kochi, her art has graced many prestigious galleries. Notably, her solo exhibition, ‘Transition,’ at the Kerala Lalithakala Akademi in Kozhikode, marked a significant milestone in her artistic journey.

Recognition has followed Shana’s talent. She was named one of the ‘Top 10 Artists’ at the Online International Contest of Watercolour Wonders conducted by IWS Iran in May 2023. Additionally, she was shortlisted for the Malaysia International Online Juried Art Competition conducted by IFAM Global in 2023.

Shana Gokul’s artistic odyssey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion. Her ability to seamlessly blend the worlds of science and art highlights the boundless potential of the human spirit. With every brushstroke, she paints a canvas filled with life’s simple and profound truths, inviting us all to appreciate the artistry that surrounds us.

From rocket science to watercolors, Shana Gokul’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue our true passions.

Raji R. is a remarkable self-taught artist whose canvas tells the story of a deeply spiritual journey, where art is revered as a divine gift that possesses the extraordinary ability to mend and uplift lives. Rooted in her dual roles as a Nurse and a Professor in Nursing Education, Raji’s profound comprehension of art as a form of medicine has transformed her work into a powerful instrument of healing, both for herself and for those fortunate enough to encounter her creations.

With an unwavering belief in the therapeutic potential of artistic expression, Raji’s artistic voyage is an embodiment of the symbiotic relationship between healing and creativity. Her dual background as a healthcare professional and an artist infuses her creations with a unique resonance. She understands the potency of art to transcend the limitations of words, touching the soul and facilitating recovery in ways conventional medicine might struggle to achieve.

Amidst her roles in the healthcare and academic realms, Raji’s art emerges as a resplendent testament to the universal human yearning for creative self-expression. She posits that within every individual resides an innate artist waiting to awaken, a belief that manifests in every stroke of her brush. The splendor of her works draws its essence from the nature that envelops us, an ever-present source of inspiration that feeds her artistic spirit.

Floral abstracts and landscapes stand as the embodiment of Raji’s artistic universe. Working predominantly with acrylics and mixed media, she conjures vivid tapestries of color and form that mirror not just the external world, but the boundless spectrum of her own personality. The vibrant hues and lively compositions echo her exuberance and informal disposition, inviting viewers to step into her world where art transcends mere visuals.

Yet, Raji’s art doesn’t confine itself to the tangible reality; it stretches its arms toward the ethereal. Her canvases are gateways to alternate dimensions, where the line between abstract and realism blurs. With a deft hand, she navigates this liminal space, creating paintings that seem to exist in a state of perpetual flux, hovering between the concrete and the surreal.

In Raji’s artistry, the canvas becomes a sanctuary where she wields the language of colors and forms to communicate emotions, experiences, and hopes. Her journey from the realm of healthcare and academia into the world of art encapsulates the potent fusion of creativity and healing. With each piece she creates, Raji adds a stroke to the collective canvas of human experience, inviting us all to recognize the artist within and the transformative power that art, as a divine blessing, can bestow.

Meet Pantelis Hatzis, a 38-year-old author and artist hailing from Naousa, Imathia, Central Macedonia, Greece. His life is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience in the face of adversity.

Pantelis was born with a leg disability, requiring him to use crutches from a very young age. Additionally, he has been battling kidney disease since the age of fourteen. He underwent his first dialysis at the age of nineteen, continuing until the age of twenty-seven when he received a kidney transplant. Today, he is once again undergoing dialysis, demonstrating incredible strength in his ongoing health journey.

A Voice for the Kidney Community

For the past nine years, Pantelis has been the driving force behind the blog www.nefropatheis.gr and the Facebook group “Νεφροπαθείς και μεταμοσχευμένοι Ελλάδας” (Kidney Patients and Transplant Recipients of Greece). He has also managed the blog www.dwrea-zois.gr and the Facebook group “Δωρεά οργάνων, Δώρο ζωής” (Organ Donation, Gift of Life), in collaboration with his friend and colleague Elena Magiati-Karabi, a kidney transplant recipient of thirty-one years.

Together, they embarked on a mission to create books for children with organic insufficiencies, starting with kidney diseases in children. Their first book, “Οι περιπέτειες του Ρούλη Νεφρούλη” (“The Adventures of Roulis Kidney”), was created to empower young fighters. It was distributed for free in pediatric dialysis units across Greece and internationally. The book’s reception was beyond expectations, touching the hearts of young readers and their families. “The Adventures of Roulis Kidney” even received the Special Jury Award at the World Literary Festival “Panorama 2022” from the International Organization Writers Capital International Foundation.

Empowering Patients through Knowledge

Their next project was the creation of the book “Το γλωσσάρι της αιμοκάθαρσης” (“The Dialysis Glossary”). This unique 84-page illustrated book offers valuable information for individuals undergoing dialysis, and it’s the only one of its kind globally. Through this book, the authors participated in the Panorama 2023 International Book Awards.

Pantelis’ love for storytelling and writing was ignited at a young age, although he also had a passion for photography. At just nine years old, he had his first encounter with a camera. As he grew older, however, the art of writing began to captivate him. In his teenage years, he felt compelled to create something, and at the age of seventeen, he cautiously ventured into writing a theatrical script centered around the Greek Revolution of 1821.

For Pantelis, writing is not just a means of expression; it’s a soulful journey. It allows him to convey his experiences to the world and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Capturing the Beauty of Landscapes

In addition to his writing endeavors, Pantelis has a deep appreciation for photography. His preferred subject is landscapes, which captivate his attention. Through his lens, he beautifully captures the splendor of nature’s wonders.

Pantelis Hatzis is a remarkable individual whose life is a source of inspiration for many. His creative spirit, resilience, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of others make him a true hero in his own right. We salute his unwavering spirit and look forward to his future endeavors in both the literary and artistic worlds.

Born in the vibrant town of Panangad, Calicut, in 1972, Shaju Neravath is an artist whose journey through the world of art has been as colorful as the canvases he paints on. His artistic odyssey began at the Universal Art Academy in Kozhikode, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career.

After completing his art studies in 1990, Shaju took on a different role – that of an art educator. He shared his knowledge and passion for art with students at a private school in Perinthalmanna, Kerala, leaving an indelible mark on young, budding artists.

Between 2011 and 2015, Shaju Neravath embarked on another chapter of his artistic journey as an artist at Sargalaya in Iringal. This experience allowed him to explore new dimensions of his creativity and connect with fellow artists in a shared space of artistic expression.

However, it was in 2016 that Shaju found his artistic home. He became a full-time artist at the Guernica Art Gallery in Calicut, a place where his talents flourished. This transition marked a significant turning point in his career as he devoted himself entirely to his craft.

Shaju Neravath’s portfolio is a testament to his versatility and creative depth. He delves into a multitude of themes, each telling a unique story. What sets him apart is his mastery of different artistic styles, seamlessly transitioning from one to another, and his preferred canvas is acrylic on canvas. His use of color and form brings his subjects to life, captivating viewers and inviting them to become a part of the narrative.

One remarkable highlight of Shaju’s career was his role as the chief artist in a collaborative effort between KCA, MCA, Sargalaya, and Guernica Art Gallery. Together, they oversaw the creation of a 170-foot-long canvas, a mammoth masterpiece that found its place of honor at the historic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. This grand endeavor showcased the power of art to transcend boundaries and captivate audiences on an unprecedented scale.

Shaju Neravath’s journey as an artist has been marked by dedication, exploration, and a commitment to bringing stories to life through his vibrant and evocative works. His art continues to inspire and connect with people from all walks of life, reminding us of the profound impact that creativity can have on our world.