Dimitra Giannakakou-Razelou Mima: Sculpting Light and Narrative Through Oil Colors
Dimitra Giannakakou-Razelou, known professionally as Mima Razelou, emerged from Athens in 1981, establishing herself as a distinctive voice within contemporary Greek art. Her artistic journey began with formal training at the Athens School of Fine Arts (ASKT), where she honed her skills and conceptualized her groundbreaking approach – “sculpture of oil colors,” an ambitious exploration blending traditional painting techniques with innovative sculptural considerations. This singular vision propelled her postgraduate studies at ASKT, culminating in honors and solidifying her commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
Her formative years were profoundly shaped by mentorship under the celebrated sculptor Takis, during which she served as his student and private assistant. This immersive experience instilled a deep understanding of form, materiality, and conceptual rigor – elements that would permeate her subsequent work. Participating actively in group exhibitions across Europe since her early academic days showcased her talent and broadened her artistic horizons. Notably, her animation project “Narration of Life in the Universe,” presented on the façade of KPN’s Rotterdam building designed by Renzo Piano during her Erasmus program at Willem de Kooning Academie, demonstrated her ability to engage with complex themes through visual storytelling. This piece continues to resonate as a testament to her creative vision and artistic exploration.
From 2009 to 2014, Mima dedicated herself to fostering creativity in young minds as an art teacher for a municipal cultural organization, nurturing the artistic sensibilities of children aged 5-11. Furthermore, she volunteered at Panhellenic Association of Families for Mental Health, utilizing her skills to offer therapeutic art classes – highlighting her compassionate engagement with social responsibility. Her pedagogical pursuits extended beyond formal education, encompassing private lessons aimed at cultivating artistic talent in aspiring students both domestically and internationally.
Her artwork has garnered recognition through publications and exhibitions, cementing her position as a respected artist within the Greek art community. The enduring legacy of Mima Razelou lies not only in her distinctive artistic style but also in her unwavering dedication to artistic education and its transformative potential.
- Early Education & Training: Dimitra Giannakakou-Razelou pursued her initial artistic training at the Athens School of Fine Arts (ASKT), where she developed a foundational understanding of visual arts principles.
- Takis’ Influence: Her mentorship under sculptor Takis proved instrumental in shaping her artistic sensibilities, fostering an appreciation for sculptural form and conceptual rigor.
- European Exhibitions & Erasmus Program: From her academic beginnings, Mima participated in numerous group exhibitions across Europe, expanding her artistic perspective and engaging with diverse cultural contexts. Her involvement in the Erasmus program at Willem de Kooning Academie resulted in the captivating animation project “Narration of Life in the Universe,” displayed prominently on KPN’s Rotterdam building.
- Teaching Experience: Between 2009 and 2014, Mima served as an art teacher for a municipal cultural organization, fostering artistic development in young children aged 5-11 – demonstrating her commitment to nurturing creativity and inspiring future generations of artists.
- Solo Exhibitions: Mima Razelou’s artistic achievements include two solo exhibitions held in Athens, showcasing her distinctive style and garnering critical acclaim.
- Collaborations & Artistic Projects: She actively collaborated on various projects with companies like Veuve Clicquot, Kraft foods, Kiehl’ s, Park House Bags and Vimadonna press, creating artworks for advertising campaigns – highlighting her versatility as an artist.
- “Color Remedy” Project: Mima spearheaded the “Color Remedy” video art team project in preparation for Biennaly Mykonos 2015, focusing on exploring color’s role in conveying narratives and emotions.
Key Artistic Concept: Dimitra Giannakakou-Razelou's artistic core revolves around the concept of “sculpture of oil colors,” a revolutionary approach that merges traditional painting techniques with sculptural considerations. She believes that color itself possesses sculptural qualities, transforming it into a tangible form—a profound departure from conventional visual arts representations.
- Notable Quote: “Απλά είναι τα χρώματα που συμφωνούν με τα στοιχεία, δηλαδή τη φωτιά, τον αέρα, το νερό και τη γή. Ο αέρας και το νερό από μόνα τους είναι εκ φύσεως λευκά, ενώ η φωτιά και ήλιος χρυσαφιά. Η γή επίσης είναι εκ φύσεως λευκή, φαίνεται όμως πολύχρωμη επειδή είναι βαμμένη. Τούτο είναι φανερό στη στάχτη όταν καίει, η υγρότητα που προκάλεσε το βάψιμο, γίνεται λευκή, όχι τελείως όμως, επειδή έχει βαφεί από τον καπνό που είναι μαύρος.” Αριστοτέλης Άπαντα τόμος 35ος, Ελάσσονα 1*
Recognition & Legacy: Mima Razelou’s work has been recognized through numerous publications and exhibitions, establishing her as a prominent figure in contemporary Greek art. Her dedication to artistic education continues to inspire aspiring artists and underscores the enduring significance of fostering creativity within communities.
