Jorja Kavellaris: How the VCE student’s mural ended up at George Calombaris’ restaurant

·

By Mary Sinanidis

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree as far as award-winning architect Billy Kavellaris’ talented daughter, Jorja Kavellaris, is concerned. 

Inspired by Greek culture and her ongoing project on Greek virtues, Jorja eagerly grabbed the opportunity to showcase her artistic skills by creating a stunning mural for George Calombaris’ newest venture, The Hellenic House Project

The artwork was commissioned by George Calombaris and consists of a two storey contemporary narration of Hellenic inspired themes that connects the ground floor and upper alfresco terrace. LinkedIn: Billy Kavellaris.

“I had known for a while that dad was working on the restaurant. Later they had commissioned artists to create contemporary line drawings for the walls. Knowing my interest in art and my ongoing project on Greek virtues for VCE, my dad asked me if I would give it a go,” Jorga explained. 

“I had already been experimenting with the subject matter, so I had done some prior research and started sketching different symbols and emblems.” 

Jorja Kavellaris fulfilling the brief to create a colourful and engaging artistic wayfinding element for patrons to navigate through the various spaces of the building. Photo: Billy Kavellaris.

With guidance from her architect father, she developed a monochromatic line work style that seamlessly connects the ground floor foyer to the first-floor restaurant. The artwork pays homage to Greek mythology and culture, incorporating Greek gods, traditional motifs, and a contemporary narration of the Greek taverna. 

Jorja’s skillful composition and passion for art shine through, leaving a lasting impression on this exciting collaboration.

“I wanted to create something that not only pleased my dad and George, but also resonated with my own artistic sensibilities. It was an opportunity to showcase my skills and prove to myself that I could excel in a challenging project,” she said, adding that she enjoyed the project and experience that opened her eyes to career possibilities. 

“It’s a career path I may consider exploring further.” 

When the architect presented the design options to the celebrity chef, he chose Jorja’s work as a design feature in the restaurant and was surprised to find out it was the work of Kavellaris’ own daughter. 

Jorja Kavellaris and George Calombaris. Photo: Billy Kavellaris.

Read more: Architect Billy Kavellaris embraces Greek kitsch and takes it from Reservoir to upmarket Toorak

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Meet TIFANY: The Greek Australian artist making waves in RnB

Are you looking for your new favourite Greek artist who combines unique sounds of RnB, house and EDM music?

Heirs of a Greek inheritance: Most common problems to deal with

There are many people of Greek descent all over the world whose parents or other close relatives had properties in Greece.

Niki Louca shares her family favourite Indokaridopita (coconut cake) recipe

It is a cake her aunty Panayiota used to make often in years gone by, and one she hasn’t had for a long time.

Naz Vardar to give Melbourne seminar on shaping Vlach identity

The focus lies on the story of a Vlach priest navigating his way within the local Vlach community in Manastir (Bitola).

Out from the White Tower’s shadow: A subversive guide to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does. Its people carry the kind of warmth that isn’t put on for tourists.

You May Also Like

Sifnos recognised as one of the world’s top gastronomic hotspots

Sifnos has claimed the second spot among the top 100 global destinations renowned for their delectable sweet treats.

Greece’s Ambassador to Australia visits the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW

On Tuesday, the Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, accompanied by Ioannis Mallikourtis, visited the offices of GOCNSW.

Sydneysiders enjoy traditional Greek paniyiri on Australia Day

Despite the extreme heat, Sydneysiders flocked to the inner-west suburb of Marrickville on Australia Day for a traditional Greek paniyiri.