Dimitra Tzanos is an artist and designer whose journey from South Africa to Greece has shaped her unique artistic style. Growing up in South Africa, Dimitra experienced a vibrant mix of cultures and traditions. She vividly recalls the moment in nursery school when her class created wrapping paper from their drawings. Seeing her art transformed into a tangible product left a lasting impression, sparking a passion that would guide her throughout her life. This early experience cemented her love for creativity, which she has nurtured ever since.

Dimitra's artistic process is a seamless fusion of traditional hand-drawn techniques and modern digital technology. She always begins her work with pencil and paper, sketching intricate designs that reflect her diverse inspirations. Once satisfied with the initial sketches, she scans them into a computer for further refinement, adding depth, colour, and detail. This unique approach allows her to create versatile designs that find their place in a wide range of applications, from stationery and home decor to fabric collections. The combination of traditional and digital methods offers her the flexibility to bring her artistic visions to life in various forms.

Dimitra Tzanos's art is a harmonious blend of cultural traditions and iconic artistic styles, each contributing to the unique character of her work. Having grown up in South Africa and later moving to Athens, Greece, Dimitra's creative vision is shaped by a rich tapestry of influences. African and Greek heritage infuses her art with a deep sense of history and tradition, while her love for travel and connection to nature bring vibrant colours and intricate patterns to her creations. Every piece she produces tells a unique story, a reflection of the diverse experiences that have shaped her perspective.

Beyond her cultural background, Dimitra's work is influenced by several iconic artists and design philosophies. The geometric and minimalist elements in her designs often reflect the influence of Piet Mondrian, known for his clean lines and abstract compositions using primary colours. The bold and vibrant hues in her illustrations, along with the organic forms, evoke the style of Henri Matisse, whose work is celebrated for its simplicity and exuberance. Additionally, some of Dimitra's pieces carry a whimsical and dreamlike quality, reminiscent of Joan Miró, adding a playful and surreal touch to her art. Dimitra also draws inspiration from the vibrant arts and crafts of Ndebele and Zulu cultures. The bold patterns, geometric shapes, and vibrant colours characteristic of these traditions have left a lasting impact on her work, contributing to the distinctive aesthetic that is uniquely Dimitra Tzanos.

Dimitra's educational background has played a crucial role in her development as an artist and designer. She earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Marketing from UNISA in South Africa, a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from AKTO in Athens, and a Master of Arts in Graphic Design from the University of the Arts in London . This comprehensive educational journey has equipped her with a deep understanding of both the business and creative aspects of design, allowing her to navigate the art world with confidence and insight.

Her professional career began in the hospitality industry, where she was instrumental in branding Kozi's, an African-inspired steakhouse in Athens. This experience taught her the importance of visual identity and branding, skills that she has since applied to her own work. Following the birth of her daughter in 2021, Dimitra transitioned to a more flexible career path, focusing on creating collections of patterns, design assets, and typography compositions. This shift allowed her to balance motherhood with her creative pursuits, finding the perfect harmony between her roles as a mother and an artist.

Dimitra has faced challenges along the way, particularly when transitioning from traditional to digital creation. The inability to physically touch her work and the constant zooming in and out made the digital process feel distant at first. It took time and patience for her to adapt and reconnect with the creative process. Moreover, she experienced moments of self-doubt, questioning the value of her work. This led to a hiatus from art, but she eventually realized that creating was essential to her well-being. It wasn't until she embraced her unique approach to art that she regained her passion and drive.

Today, Dimitra Tzanos creates art with the intent of bringing joy and pride to those who experience it. Her work, rooted in a blend of cultural influences and personal experiences, aims to inspire others to embrace their creativity. Dimitra also enjoys sharing what she's learned about branding and design, teaching others how to translate their creative ideas into tangible works of art. Through her dedication to the creative process, she hopes to inspire a new generation of artists and designers.