A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure to attend the wedding anniversary of my dear friends: artist Daniela Kamiliotis and her loving husband, Thanos, in their lovely weekend home in Bethel, Connecticut. It was one of the most enjoyable outdoor parties I had been, surrounded by peaceful nature, a beautiful lake and a group of wonderful people. What was clearly a couple still very much in love, after their happy 26 years together, made for a vibrant duo hosting their anniversary party.
Having seen Daniela’s previous work, she comes across as the perfect woman: a high-power executive by day, heading the Women’s Collection as Senior Vice President at Ralph Lauren, an exquisite artist with multiple exhibitions under her belt as well as an international set and costume designer, and perhaps most importantly, a loving wife to her husband Thanos. Their beautiful home is an extension of Daniela’s everlasting passion for art, as she has majestically decked it with her artwork.
My indulgence for the day was exploring Daniela’s studio. With her permission, I went inside and lost myself in it … every inch of her whimsical studio is a testament of her fantasy world. The paintings, the fabrics, the torsos, every corner and every brush was enriching at pure sight.
“This is my studio, where as a woman I dream,” the artist said.
Her studio – a stunning sunroom bursting with light – is not her only refuge. Inspired by her surroundings, she has created striking murals, leaving casual passersby speechless.
Kicking myself for not bringing my camera, I had to make do with my iPhone. I am quite pleased with the outcome; the camera perfectly captured the energy exuding from each piece.
An interpretation of Henri Matisse’s La Dance, the ladies in strong reds against a deep blue sky dancing on cool green grass, is plastered unto the wall next to the studio.
Another one can be seen driving down Putnam Park Road, on her garage door. Given it was my first time in Bethel, I could not easily find her house. But seeing the mural, I instantly yelled to the driver: STOP! “Homage to Picasso,” proud and joyous in its exuberance of colors was right in front of me.
A collage of five major Picasso paintings, assembled in her vision, was in fact a gift to her husband Thanos in honor of their wedding anniversary. The top edge of the mural reads: “2012 ~ 8-26 ~ (hearts) ~ 25 Thanos and Daniela ~ Hommage to Picasso ~ The Studio.” So true it is then, Daniela is not your average artist. She conquers and she inspires, in so many ways.
