Maria Stini

Interview, Photo: Nikos Zappas

Art is like breath, without it you die

I was fascinated by the beauty and serenity of this island which could inspire me as an artist; I held many exhibitions –oil, acrylic paintings, water colours-inspired mainly by the local environment.

In the recent years you live and work at your studio on Paros. Which was the main incentive for your decision?
To Paros, this beautiful Aegean island, I came with my husband Petros several years ago and we took roots. (Now we are citizens of Paros). I was fascinated by the beauty and serenity of this island which could inspire me as an artist; I held many exhibitions –oil, acrylic paintings, water colours-inspired mainly by the local environment. Opposite the exquisite island of Antiparos, we have the region of Eklisidia which owns its name to its many churches (ekklisia=church)-its present name is Glisidia. The magnificent sunsets and the bucolic surroundings prompted us to create, with much love and hard work. a small house complex with a small church in the centre.
I always wanted to take up interior and exterior designing and at last I had the opportunity to do so.
The small church dedicated to PANAGIA (Virgin Mary) was a vow. With great devotion I created its icons, using the fresco technique. The painting of Panagia at the niche was ready, when I left for Athens. When I came back to Paros the image had been deleted. I realized that I should paint it again as it is nowadays with its look of mixed joy and sadness that surrounds you no matter from what direction you look at it. I keep my studio in Athens and I pay there frequent visits to be in touch with exhibitions and other art events.

At Paros, in recent years we have intense cultural activities. Many theatre groups, performances, exhibitions, in general a growing “thirst” for art. How do you interpret this phenomenon?
Art is Life. While the body needs nutrition in order to live, spiritual food is equally necessary for the human beings who seek to satisfy these spiritual quests.

Greece is now in the sixth year of an unprecedented crisis. What is the most important thing these years have taught us?
I have always maintained and I want to say it once again that Greece never dies. It is like the “Phoenix” which is reborn from its ash, Greece is Immortal!

Which would be your advice to a young artist?
Art is like breath, without it you die.

Summer 2016