James Pasakos: An artistic journey of identity and place

·

Visual artist James Pasakos has found a profound connection between his art and his personal experiences.

The Docklands, Melbourne’s historical precinct from the Victorian Gold Rush era, has served as a powerful backdrop in his exploration of identity, belonging, and the intricate interplay between cultural heritage and upbringing. For Pasakos, these docklands symbolise more than a maritime landscape; they are a mirror reflecting his quest to fathom the essence of belonging and the complexities of cultural identity.

Drawing from his Australian upbringing and Greek heritage, he intertwines these diverse worlds, creating a narrative that celebrates the blending of cultural values and the evolution of personal identity.

Employing Printmaking, Drawing, and Mixed Media, Pasakos crafts works that exude a surreal yet atmospheric quality, drenched in hues that evoke a sense of mystery and personal introspection. His artistic journey extends beyond solitary creation, engaging in collaborative projects, exhibitions, and print exchanges that enrich both his techniques and narrative.

james pasakos
Windmill at Antimachia, Kos, Monotype, 2018, 49.5 x 64cm, Edition 1/1

While rooted in Melbourne, Pasakos now calls Ballarat home, where he serves as a Visual Arts Lecturer at Federation University Australia, sharing his expertise in Printmaking, Drawing, and Studio Practice. His academic journey boasts a Master of Fine Art and an array of Visual Arts qualifications.

Since 1991, Pasakos has exhibited extensively across Australia and globally, featuring in solo and group exhibitions, with his works finding residence in public, private, and university collections, and participated in global conferences and exhibitions like IMPACT in Spain, China and Scotland.

james pasakos
Ntomates, Silkscreen, 2022, 59 x 42cm, Edition 12

Pasakos founded the regional collective ‘Goldfields Printmakers’ in 2012, a concept brought to fruition from an international Printmaking conference held at Monash University, Melbourne in 2011. The collective has exhibited and participated in projects throughout Victoria and internationally. Pasakos is also co-founder of the international collective ‘Thinking of Place.’ A collective beginnings at an international Printmaking conference in Scotland, Dundee 2012. Various initiated international projects have seen the collective embrace and included many other cities across the globe. Projects have travelled through Germany, USA, Serbia, England, New Zealand, Canada and many other international cities.

james pasakos
Merging Metamorphosis (part of), Monotype – Ceramic Printed Plate / Work on Paper, 2022, Edition 1/1

Beyond artworks, Pasakos’ art is a testament to the migrant stories he cherishes, serving as touching reminders of the fragility and resilience of human identity. His ongoing projects, ‘Thinking of Place’ and ‘Parallel Prints NZ&AU’ transcend geographical boundaries with diverse narratives and collective experiences.

Pasakos’ artistic journey embodies not only personal introspection but also a celebration of cultural diversity, inviting viewers to traverse landscapes of identity, belonging, and the ever-evolving human experience.

Links to projects, exhibitions, and achievements can be found in the artist’s profile at Federation University Australia and various exhibition websites:

james pasakos
Elies, Silkscreen, 2022, 59 x 42cm, Edition 12

James is amongst many Greek Australian artists who have participated in the GAAD (Greek Australian Artist Directory). An initiative by the Greek Australian Cultural League (GACL), the GAAD celebrates Greek Australian visual and performing artists by showcasing their works and contributions to the Australian arts landscape.  By preserving and promoting the artistic legacy of Greek Australian artists, the directory ensures that their talents are duly acknowledged and cherished, cementing their place in Australia’s artistic narrative.

Interested artists can register their profiles by visiting www.gacl.com.au and clicking on the dedicated GAAD section.  For any inquiries related to the GAAD, individuals can either email GACL President Cathy Alexopoulos infogaclm@gmail.com or contact GAAD Co-ordinator Vasy Petros on 0412 242557

*Written by Vasy Petros. This is a Greek Australian Cultural League Initiative supported by The Greek Herald.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

‘Better than a daughter’: Scarlett rewrites the Greek mother-in-law story

The trope of a bad Greek mother-in-law has been completely rewritten in the Richmond home of Scarlett Athanasia Bauwens and Niki Papageorgiou.

Hospital ICU transformed so yiayia Freda Razos could join granddaughter’s wedding day

When yiayia Freda Razos became too unwell to attend her granddaughter's wedding, her family brought the wedding to Epworth Richmond instead.

Mark Bouris reflects on identity, family and legacy at Fronditha Care event

Fronditha Care hosted its first fundraiser, “In Conversation”, with Mark Bouris, Executive Chairman of Yellow Brick Road Home Loans.

Pharos Alliance holds public meeting to discuss plan for Greek language education

On Wednesday, May 28, 30 people braved the cold and windy weather to meet with the Pharos committee and debate the challenges ahead. 

Bridging the gap: Advocating for better brain cancer care in regional NSW

On Tuesday, 27 May 2025, The Brain Cancer Group (TBCG) hosted its 8th Annual Awareness Event at the NSW Parliament House.

You May Also Like

Heidelberg United FC respond to National Second Tier announcement

Heidelberg United FC has responded to Football Australia’s recent announcement of the inaugural National Second Tier Competition.

Peter Andre details his experience with racial abuse growing up in Australia with Greek parents

Peter Andre moved to Australia with his Greek parents at the age of six and he says racism was thrown at them "for years."

Sold-out success: ‘Stelios’ premiere brings Kazantzidis’ story to life in Sydney

It was a night of nostalgia, pride and cinematic excellence as the Australian premiere of Stelios unfolded on Wednesday, April 23.