“Viva la Revolution”

Fresh Talk!

Do you remember your first artwork in public space? How has your work changed since then?

It all started in 1998, along with my first project. The positive thing is that it still stands there, alive, reminding me the exact starting point. It may not have a direct connection with the art of calligraphy, but it has been and continues to be a reference point in my entire artistic career until today.

Clearly, after so many years, it’s only logical that art has evolved, as we ourselves are evolving. All that we create in life, especially in its initial stages, doesn’t in any way betray the result they’ll have later on. Perhaps we can’t even imagine where they’re going to lead us. There are many times, unfortunately, that we abandon our efforts to create, based on a ‘failure’. But like in my own case of evolution, I think the key is to keep cultivating your talents even thought you can’t see the 100% you seek yet . As the years pass by your job will be getting better and the results will justify you. Practice makes perfect!

Simon Silaidis is the artist behind the Urban Calligraphy movement. He was born in Athens in 1984 and his love for calligraphy was the ticket to travel in the most incredible places in the world, study and experiment on this art. Highlights on his trip so far are his choice by the worldwide known designer Philippe Starck to decorate one of his most innovative buildings, Le Nuage, in Montepillier, France, as well as his selection as the main person in charge of Adam Opel’s global campaign, where the artist using the calligraphy art turns the new Opel Corsa into a brush.

While most Street artists are trying to find places in the historic center of Athens to create because of the projection that their work gets, you seem to be distant. Is that a conscious choice? How does the way Greek scene is shaped feels to you, is there any interest from abroad?

It’s definitely a conscious choice since I have rejected similar proposals several times. Certainly what you mentioned is true and that’s how an artwork will meet the eyes of a wider crowd. In my case the nature and the atmosphere of a spot where an art piece will be has an essential role. If there’s such a place in the center of Athens that fits my philosophy I’ll think about it. Personally, I’m delighted even if only one person finds my work. In this way I’ll know that the place where he saw it had attracted him. Ιf you think about it after all , art is expression and communication and that’s why I try to create in the most ideal and atmospheric location according to my own thoughts.

The Greek scene is undoubtedly very strong and has a significant presence abroad. This fact makes me particularly happy as I see many Greeks representing us globally next to equally talented names of the international stage.