A recent residency at DRAWinternational in Caylus, France, brought together artists from different corners of the world, creating an unforgettable experience of artistic collaboration.
Emmy Mavroidis, a talented Greek Australian artist exploring gesture and the body, had the honour of participating in the enriching residency earlier this year, which delved into the significance of drawing as an expressive medium.
Under the guidance of John and Grete McNorton, the residency provided a platform for artists to exchange ideas and experiences. Collaborating with artists from different cultural backgrounds who shared a passion for drawing was a truly unique opportunity.
The culmination of their work was showcased at the DRAW international exhibition, where they also had the privilege of engaging with a group of Fine Art students from England, delivering talks about their individual drawing practices and creative processes.
One of Emmy’s most profound inspirations during the residency came from a private tour of The Pech Merle cave, renowned for its ancient charcoal drawings of mammoths, bison, and Spotted Horses, which date back over 29,000 years. Witnessing these raw and evocative drawings sparked contemplation on the primal nature of drawing and its intrinsic connection to human expression and mark-making.
Emmy, a Melbourne-based artist and researcher, has dedicated her career to exploring the interplay between drawing, gesture, and the body. Currently pursuing a Master of Fine Art by Research at The University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, Emmy brings a profound understanding of the somatic aspects of artistic expression.
With her background in painting and a Master’s degree in Contemporary Art, she founded Nyora Studio Gallery—a thriving arts centre in Melbourne. Through Nyora Gallery’s Resident Artists Program, Emmy teaches and mentors other artists while organising exhibitions and workshops focused on drawing and sculpture.
To view Emmy’s work, her many achievements and awards, visit the Greek Australian Artist Directory (GAAD) at https://gaclmelbourne.com/g/project/emmy-mavroidis/
Initiated by the Greek Australian Cultural League (GACL), the GAAD celebrates Greek Australian artists by showcasing their work and contributions to the Australian arts community and serves as an invaluable resource for curators, collectors, researchers, and art enthusiasts interested in exploring Greek Australian art. It represents artists from various backgrounds, both past and present, whose work has been inspired by Greek culture. The GAAD not only showcases the creative endeavours of Greek Australian artists but also recognises their influence and enriching impact on the Australian arts scene. By preserving cultural identity and historical significance, the GAAD ensures that the artistic contributions of Greek-Australian artists are duly acknowledged and appreciated.
For artists wishing to register in the GAAD, please visit www.gacl.com.au and click GAAD. For general enquiries contact: infogaclm@gmail.com, GACL President Cathy Alexopoulos on 0428 968 715, or GAAD Co-ordinator Vasy Petros on 0412 242 557.
*Written by Vasy Petros. This is a Greek Australian Cultural League Initiative supported by The Greek Herald.
