Sofia Daskalaki: From Pseudonymous Beginnings to Transparent Creativity
This week join me in exploring the vibrant world of Sofia, the creative force behind 'Happy Hemera.' A skilled artist with a penchant for whimsical colors and minimalist shapes, Sofia's journey is a testament to the pursuit of passion and the joy found in the balance between family and creativity. Sofia takes you through the metamorphosis from a pseudonymous shield to a transparent artist.
This is Sofia’s story
As a self-taught illustrator and surface pattern designer, I have an insatiable passion for playing with the whimsy of color and the simplicity of shapes. My love for bold color combinations and minimalistic designs serve as the foundation of my artwork. My journey into the world of illustrations began in 2019, during my pregnancy. At that time, I knew that I didn't want to return to my previous job. I yearned for a life where I could balance my time between my family and my passion. Following this path has proven to be the right decision. Each day, as I step into my studio, I'm greeted with a sense of joy and fulfillment that comes from doing what I truly love.
'Happy Hemera' is a Greek phrase meaning 'Happy Day'. The essence of my art is to bring a smile to people's faces, and what better way to encapsulate this than a reference to a happy, sun-kissed day? The tale behind 'Happy Hemera' is an intriguing one, albeit not steeped in grandiose adventures. At the beginning of my creative journey, I sought refuge behind a pseudonym, a veil that would conceal my true identity. The fear of being judged and the vulnerability of exposing my work to those who knew me was overwhelming. Thus, 'Happy Hemera' came into being, a beacon of positivity and joy that I hid behind.
Over time, my perspective has evolved. I no longer feel the need to conceal my identity or my art. I've grown comfortable with showcasing my creative journey, my struggles, and most importantly, my triumphs. Looking back, it's a joy to see how far I've come, and how much I've grown. Today, 'Happy Hemera' remains my moniker on Instagram, a cherished memento of my early days and a name I hold dear as it marks the beginning of my journey. However, I no longer seek refuge behind pseudonyms, I am transparent, unafraid, and delighted to share my work as Sofia. I am proud of my journey, my art, and the vibrant story I've woven thus far.
Sofia’s whimsical colours and simple shape
My creative process is a vibrant dance of exploration, inspiration, and execution. Whenever I embark on a new project with a client, I begin with a deep dive into research. I curate a mood board, a visual symphony of ideas and aesthetics that serve as my guiding compass. Inspiration comes from everywhere, like a song's melody, a book's story, a walk's whispering wind, or a movie's subtle details. These ordinary moments often spark my most significant ideas. Once I've fuelled my mind with inspiration, I surrender to the creative process. I sit down and let my thoughts flow freely, brainstorming ideas and sketching concepts. This initial phase, from receiving the client's brief to sharing the first batch of sketches, is the most challenging yet crucial part of my process. It demands time and effort, but it's here where the magic really happens.
I believe in the power of patience. Creativity is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It's about allowing myself the time to rest, to breathe, and to truly enjoy the journey. This approach keeps my creative wellspring flowing and ensures that every design I create is infused with passion and joy. After all, the most intricate details and the final touches, those come easily once the foundation is strong.
Building a community in this often solitary profession is a dream come true. Every interaction, every shared idea, and every exchanged process feels like a burst of connection. I revel in the opportunity to engage in discussions, pose questions, share fears, and navigate struggles together. Though we may be different individuals, we share common experiences and emotions, and it's this shared understanding that makes our community incredibly resilient and strong.
The face behind Happy Hemera
In terms of cultivating such a community, I don't have a secret formula. Authenticity is the key. Be true to who you are, share your thoughts, express your fears, showcase your work, and let others get to know the real you. You'll find that this community is incredibly welcoming and always ready to extend a friendly, supportive hand. It's a vibrant tapestry of diverse creatives, each thread contributing to a beautiful, inspiring whole.
8 Tips to Embrace Your Artistic Journey
Follow Your Passion: Pursue what you truly love and find joy in, even if it means taking a different path or exploring a new creative endeavor.
Embrace Minimalism and Bold Colors: For artists and designers, consider exploring the power of minimalist shapes and bold color combinations as a foundational element in your work.
Overcome Fear and Vulnerability: Don't let fear of judgment or vulnerability hold you back. Embrace your true identity and showcase your creative journey openly.
Evolve and Grow: Be open to growth and evolution. Over time, perspectives may change, and it's essential to embrace that change, learn from experiences, and celebrate personal and creative growth.
Create a Strong Foundation in Your Creative Process: Invest time and effort in the initial phases of your creative process. Research thoroughly, curate mood boards, and brainstorm ideas to lay a strong foundation for your projects.
Find Inspiration Everywhere: Look for inspiration in ordinary moments – a song's melody, a book's story, a walk's whispering wind, or a movie's subtle details. Let these everyday experiences spark your most significant ideas.
Patience is Key: Creativity is not a sprint; it's a marathon. Allow yourself the time to rest, breathe, and enjoy the creative journey. Patience ensures that every design is infused with passion and joy.
Build a Supportive Creative Community: Authenticity is crucial in building a supportive creative community. Share your thoughts, express your fears, showcase your work, and let others get to know the real you. Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and navigate the creative journey together.
