The piece travels from the creator to the public to find a receiver. Lily Kanellopoulou interviewed by Klimt02

What's local and universal in your artistic work?
Living and working in Athens, a part of my work is based on memories and images I have from my country and Tinos island of Cyclades, where I spend most of my summertime in the last years. But the hints of the elements that are local, have at the same time a universal character. The shades of blue on a few of my brooches have a lot to do with my window view from my house in Tinos, but the element was the sea and is universal.


What do you expect when you show your work to the public (for example, with an exhibition)?
I listen to the comments, I am interested in reactions and curious to learn if my work communicates my ideas, if they like it or not, how much and why. You must be prepared for the best and the worst at the same time. The reaction of people is unpredictable sometimes. Listening to several comments and filtering the opinions, you learn not only about your work but also about the others.


How important is the handmade for you in your development? What role does techniques and technology play in your development?
The handmade piece has the print of the maker. Sometimes, even at a carefully well done handmade piece, the imperfections may give it more beauty and interest. Techniques and technology are necessary implements. New ideas can be carried out. New designs can be achieved. The offer of technology to the arts is a great gift.


When you start making a new piece what is your process? How much of it is a pre-formulated plan and how much do you let the material spontaneity lead you?
The process is complicated and it depends on the theme, my ideas and the result of experimentations. Sometimes it is necessary and clever to leave the material lead you and other ones it is better to work with a pre-formulated plan. Resin is a material you cannot always control. An innovative idea may occur during the procession or as a result of a failure and change totally your plans.


How important is wearability in contemporary jewellery? And in your pieces?
Considering that a contemporary jewelry piece is an object of art, wearability is not necessary. The piece travels from the creator to the public to find a receiver. Even if it is not wearable, an important thing is to complete this cycle finding a proper receiver. Although I like that my own jewels are wearable, I cannot foresight my next steps or predict the evolution of my work. 


The last work, book, film, city that moved me was...
My visit to the Vila Romana del Casale, near the town of Piazza Armerina in Sicily last year. Excavations have revealed one of the richest, largest and varied collections of Roman mosaics in the world, protected by Unesco. The place had been closed for 15 years for restoration works and reopened a few years ago. I was lucky to have the chance to visit the unique and excellent in their state of preservation mosaics with the amazing scenes of the hunter, the women wearing a bikini while playing sports, the children with detailed clothes and a thousand more.


What/who is the biggest influence in your career?
When I was thirty, I had a very serious and shocking accident which changed my life totally. After a month at the hospital, gradually I changed the field of work, friends and way of thinking. Twenty-five years later, the sudden death of my brother changed my life again. The economical crisis in Greece was growing and I realized that my wish for a comeback to my former job was impossible then. My start with jewelry was an attempt to escape from serious problems I had to conflict after his death and a try to heal myself.  Although these facts, that had led me to the decision to change twice my career, are two of the most unhappy moments of my life, I have to admit that over the years I became stronger, more mature and realistic.


Which piece or job gave you more satisfaction?
I would say that a moment of great satisfaction, was the moment I was awarded at JOYA last year, but I would like also to mention the moments that being on stage as an actress, I had the feeling of deep communication with the audience.  


What is your source to get information?
I like reading and travelling. I enjoy lectures, workshops, museums, radio, television and of course internet the last years. But I believe the most important information comes when deep concentration creates a meditation state, where answers and truth are obvious and clear in front of you.


Considering the experiences you have had over the years - if you could go back and give yourself a piece of advice for the start-up phase, what would that be?
Trust your instinct and filter the other’s opinion. Follow your inner light and choose the collaborations that would build an inspiring and trustful environment around you, whatever it costs. Be close with people you appreciate their attitude at life and work.


Can you describe your personality in 3 words, describe your work in 3 words.
I like to be devoted and sincere. Morality is important to me.
The words I would say about my recent work are experimentation, color and personal sensibilities.