Recognised under the pseudonym YANIS, John Papailiou is a renowned innovative designer and digital artist, who bypasses the conventional tools of canvas and brush, favouring instead the influence of music from diverse genres and the technological finesse of his ‘Digital Canvas.’ This atypical toolkit serves as the catalyst for his creative endeavours, and propel him into a realm of artistic exploration.
This is his sanctuary and creative haven. A place where he blends genres and pushes the boundaries of digital abstract and geometric art to create his own distinctive style known as ‘Abstractus Geometricus.’ This is where his creative spirit flourishes, translating abstract thoughts into visually stunning graphics- a passion that has remained a constant throughout his professional journey and artistic expression.
During the early years, his high school teacher and artistic mentor, Brian Worsey, played a pivotal role in nurturing his creative instincts. Under Mr. Worsey’s guidance, he learned to perceive the inherent creativity in his surroundings, capturing the beauty of form, function, colour, and abstract shapes. This mentorship instilled in him the courage to diverge from conformity and embrace his unique artistic journey.
Drawing inspiration from artists such as Wassily Kandinsky and the Abstract Expressionism art movement of the post-World War II era, Yani’s work, is a mesmerizing amalgamation of colours, shapes, and textures. With the use of abstract and geometric art as guiding principles, he delves into the complexities of shape, colour, form, and composition. His aim, to evoke emotional responses through his abstract contemporary style, infusing elements of spirituality, nature, and the human experience, inviting viewers on a journey of introspection and self-discovery.
Influenced by the cultural revolution of the 1960s, he incorporates its sounds, vibrant colours, and free-spirited aesthetics. Whether it is, ‘the rhythm of Rap, the soulful notes of Jazz, the infectious beats of Pop, the electrifying riffs of Rock, or the emotive symphonies of Classical music”, each creation is an embodiment of a musical narrative.
In later works, ‘Let Me Wipe Away Your Tears’, (pictured) Yani pays tribute to his mother Ekaterini (nee Mihalarias) Papailiou. The artwork represents the immense sadness and trauma experienced when her newborn was taken from her in hospital, during the forced adoption era,1960s. ‘Australia’s Shame’(pictured) is another piece incorporating Yani’s thoughts after the Voice Referendum.
To Yanis, “Creativity serves as the vessel that navigates the tumultuous waters of uncertainty, fear, and joy. It is the manifestation of emotions let loose, guiding us through the labyrinth of life”.
Yani’s complete works (‘Abstractus Geometricus’) are accessible for purchase in the form of exquisite Fine Art Prints. Each signed and numbered with a certificate of authenticity and created using highquality Pigment Ink on Archival Cotton Rag or Chromogenic Print for World Class Acrylic Face Mounts, ensuring long-lasting and vibrant displays.
To view his Virtual Exhibition, visit https://assets.artplacer.com/virtual-exhibitions/?i=12787 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yanisstudiogallery/ website: https://yanis.com.au
Harmonies in Hope: The essence of ‘Abstractus Geometricus’
YANIS says: “Welcome to ‘Abstractus Geometricus’, a beacon of my life’s purpose and philosophy, far more than just an artistic endeavour. This collection is not only a testament to my personal journey, growth, and evolution but also epitomizes my aspiration to make the world a better place, one inspired soul at a time. Each artwork I create is an expression of my experiences and a silent ode to those born into adversity, resonating with a universal sentiment of empathy.
In every stroke on my ‘Digital Canvas’, I convey messages of hope, resilience, and solidarity. My art transcends being a mere form of expression; it becomes a medium of outreach, offering a space of peace and understanding amidst chaos. The abstract elements in my work symbolize the complex emotions and aspirations of those who, like me, yearn for a better world, while the geometric patterns represent our interconnectedness, emphasising our shared humanity, irrespective of our diverse backgrounds.
‘Abstractus Geometricus’ is a collective reflection of our shared human experience. It goes beyond my personal story, resonating with anyone who has ever felt lost, challenged, or misunderstood. It is a reminder that, though our individual stories may vary, our collective longing for understanding, acceptance, and positive change is what unites us.
As this journey unfolds, my art becomes a platform for those overlooked voices, amplifying their stories with the hope of igniting empathy and unity. Through ‘Abstractus Geometricus’, I aim to bridge divides and spark a collective transformation, extending gratitude to kindred spirits who share in this vision. It’s a silent language of art, reaching out to touch souls, embodying the belief that change can emerge from small, yet profound gestures of artistic expression.
In essence, ‘Abstractus Geometricus’ is not just an artistic label; it is a living, evolving testament to a shared dream of a better world, a tapestry of individual and collective narratives that together weave the story of our humanity, driven by the hope for a brighter, more empathetic future.”
Yanis 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 242 557
*This is a Greek Australian Cultural League Initiative supported by The Greek Herald.
