A designer, a writer, and an artist from Crete, who's unique way of living and creating has mesmerised many, including the Knotty team. Linda Pappa creates impressive artwork inspired by Mother Earth & calls herself a catalyst that helps people bring their visions to life. We chatted with Linda about her art & inspiration.
Linda, tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.
I am a dreamer who has always felt a little underwhelmed with our conventional reality, and loves to venture into the deeper, spiritual realms. My imagination has always pulled me inwards, and that kind of depth is what I appreciate in everything: in life, in relationships and in creating.
My work as a designer revolves mainly around being a catalyst that helps people bring their visions to life through soulful brand and art direction. My work as an artist is all about connecting and co-creating with Earth and nature. My work as a writer and as a guide is to share the things that bring that depth to my life, such as Elemental connection, cyclical living and creativity as a pathway to know our essence.
How did you know that you were "an artist"? And does anyone, really?
I think we have huge misconceptions about what being an artist truly is. To be an artist, it's enough to believe that you are one. As easy as it sounds, that's the tough part though. Picasso has a famous saying: "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." I think it takes courage, curiosity and a fair bit of wildness to follow that path.
You like to say that you co-create with Earth. Can you share more on what that means for you?
For me, the Earth is not just something we walk on, it's something with its own spirit & energy, like a person you can connect with, that's why I like to say I co-create with her. That often leads me to go quite far in the process. I enjoy collecting different earth colours and making natural paints for my artworks. I love hand building vessels with clay and wild earth. I love knowing about the plants, the seasons, and letting it all be my medicine and inspiration.
Over the last few years it's become something more than just self-expression, it's now a spiritual practice, that requires a mindful presence and receptiveness.
How do you think each of us can connect with nature better, where to look for inspiration?
I feel like firstly we need to allow ourselves to be in the receptive place. It's so important to let ourselves be curious. We're not made to feel separate from nature. The elements of nature are all a part of us.
In fact, nature just doesn't shut up — she wants us to listen. She also wants us to create with her, like our ancestors did. Nature provides so many resources for us: physical and non-physical ones, such as inspirations, ideas and revelations. From there, we just need to follow the thread.
