Welcome to our exclusive artist interview series at INO Design, where we spotlight the incredible talents behind our unique, handcrafted products. In each interview, we explore the inspiration, process, and artistry of the collaborators who bring their creative visions to life. This week, we’re thrilled to feature Dimitra and Katerina Tzivelos of Δeltakappadesign, twin sisters whose combined artistic styles beautifully blend tradition with contemporary design. Read on to discover how their work is deeply rooted in Greek heritage and their collaborative creative process.
1. As twin sisters collaborating on Δeltakappadesign, how do your individual artistic styles complement each other in your work?
As twins, people often expect us to be identical in everything, but our individual artistic styles are quite different, which enriches our work. One of us leans towards bold, graphic elements, while the other prefers delicate, intricate details. This contrast creates balance in our designs. Through constant dialogue, we merge our distinct styles, combining geometric patterns with organic forms to create cohesive, multi-layered artworks. Our shared appreciation for Greek heritage and craftsmanship ensures a unified vision despite our stylistic differences.
2. Dimitra, your black-and-white technique is both lyrical and intricate. What inspired you to focus on Greek folk tradition, architecture, and the natural world in your art?
The rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Greece deeply inspire me. The black-and-white palette allows me to explore the contrast between light and shadow, capturing the essence of Greece in its most elemental form. Greek folk tradition, with its intricate patterns and symbolism, informs much of my work. I also draw inspiration from Greek architecture and the rugged landscapes that surround us. These influences allow me to create pieces that honor Greece's past while embracing its timeless beauty.
3. Your process involves breaking down images into smaller sections using fine-point markers. Can you walk us through how you develop these complex, multi-layered artworks?
My process starts with a clear concept and preliminary sketches that map out the composition. I then break down the image into smaller sections, treating each as a "micro-composition" that must work both individually and within the whole. I begin inking with fine-point markers, building layers of lines and patterns. By balancing bold and delicate lines, I create visual depth and interest. The result is a harmonious blend of intricate details and overall composition that reflects my artistic vision.
4. Δeltakappadesign draws from a wide range of influences, from Islamic and Gothic art to Ancient Greek and Indian styles. How do you blend these diverse elements to create cohesive pieces?
The key to blending these diverse influences lies in finding common threads, such as intricate patterns, symmetry, and geometric shapes, which all these styles share. I study each tradition in detail, then develop a visual language that incorporates elements from each. For example, I may combine the geometric precision of Islamic patterns with the flowing lines of Indian motifs. Through a unified color palette and medium, I ensure that the final piece feels cohesive, balancing complexity and harmony.
5. How does your Greek heritage and the timeless beauty of Classical Greece influence the work you produce at Δeltakappadesign?
Our Greek heritage is central to our work, influencing everything from geometric patterns to storytelling. Classical Greece's emphasis on balance, harmony, and proportion is reflected in our designs. We also draw on Greek mythology and cultural symbols to infuse our pieces with meaning. By blending modern techniques with classical inspiration, we create timeless pieces that honor our heritage while appealing to contemporary tastes.
6. What message or emotion do you hope to convey through the intricate details and motifs in your designs?
Through our intricate designs, we aim to convey timeless elegance, cultural heritage, and a deep emotional connection to the past. Each motif is carefully chosen to tell a story—whether it’s a sense of nostalgia for Greece, the strength of mythology, or the serenity of the Mediterranean landscape. Our hope is that viewers find their own stories within the art, experiencing peace, inspiration, or a connection to their cultural roots.
The artistic collaboration of Dimitra and Katerina reflects a deep appreciation for cultural heritage, artistic diversity, and storytelling. By blending modern techniques with timeless influences, they craft unique pieces that celebrate the beauty and complexity of Greek art and design. Δeltakappadesign not only showcases their individual talents but also highlights the power of collaboration in creating art that resonates across time, culture, and personal expression.
