Theo Papathomas is a Melbourne-based experimental artist driven by a spirit that is free, spontaneous, and intuitive. His work purely relies on his artistic expression and a love of challenging one’s self. Often drawing inspiration from the Australian landscape and his own life experiences, Theo creates artworks that reflect both the spiritual and optimistic facets of his journey, shaped by his encounter with war, loss, and a deep connection to his Greek Orthodox faith.
Born in Cyprus and migrating to Australia in 1975 after the Turkish invasion, Theo’s love for art ignited during his high school years. Guided by a fascination with expressionism and abstract art, he completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts at RMIT University in 1983 and began exhibiting in group and solo exhibitions at Rambarellas Gallery, Brunswick Street.
Theo’s persistent dedication has now led him to a full-time engagement with his art. He has participated in many art events, multiple successful group and solo exhibitions at Fortyfivedownstairs (Melb), Tacit Art Galleries (Melb), Steps Gallery (Melb), as well as internationally at Van Der Plas Gallery (New York) and Peters Gallery in his homeland, Cyprus. He has also established himself as a multi-award prize winner and finalist at prestigious art events such as- The Wynne Prize (2013 & 2015 Art Gallery NSW), The Len Fox Art Prize (2016 Castelmaine Art Museum), Paddington Art Prize (2014), Cromwell Art Prize (2006) and S.H. Ervin Gallery, Salon Des Refuses (2014). His works have been published in the Australian Home Design Magazine and have featured on screen in the popular TV productions of The Block and House Rules.
In adapting to the demands of the contemporary art industry, Theo acknowledges the role of social media and digital cataloguing in reaching diverse audiences on a global level. Despite grappling with technology, he has embraced platforms like Instagram and Facebook to build a following. His artworks feature on online galleries such as Bluethumb and Art Lovers Australia, where he navigates the challenges of categorization with a belief that labels should be subjective, inviting viewers to interpret his creations through their unique perspectives.
To view Theo’s work, visit online galleries- https://bluethumb.com.au and https://artloversaustralia.com.au. For inquiries, contact Theo Papathomas at theodors.papathomas@bigpond.com and follow his artistic journey on Instagram @theo.papathomasart.
Theo 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.
