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On this episode of the Stories to Create Podcast, Cornell Bunting sits down with Dani Papanikolaou, also known as "Papa," a mixed-media painter and sketchbook artist celebrated for his innovative exploration of saturation and line. Papa’s work, often centered on nude figures, reflects his unique aesthetic inspired by urban tribalism and rooted in Neo-Expressionism, abstraction, action painting, and street art. His distinctive style is marked by bold mark-making techniques and striking color dissonance, making his creations instantly recognizable. As a live painting performer, Papa channels instinct and improvisation to bring each canvas to life.

Born and raised in Florida, Papa has lived across the state and resides in Naples, FL. Over the past eight years, he has served as an educator, mentor, and community leader in Southwest Florida. Currently pursuing an MFA in Painting at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD), Papa envisions a future in academia and philanthropy.

Papa’s passion for portraiture and the human form stems from a deep fascination with the human psyche, which he explores through abstraction and expression. On the podcast, he shares insights into his creative process, including using automatic drawing to unlock his artistic potential. His vibrant and unapologetic use of color adds complexity and emotional depth to his work, evoking raw, genuine responses.

During the episode, Papa discusses key elements of his artistic journey, including his Continuous Sketchbook Entries, Live Nude Figure Drawing, Action Painting, and his early experiments with Nonsensical Doodles and Prose. Reflecting on his creative ethos, Papa states, "I possess an investigative interest in mark-making with a love of exploring swashes of bold colors. I am a live painting performer, favoring synesthetic performances done in public or with an audience."

This captivating and inspiring interview offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist who continues to push boundaries and innovate. Don’t miss this engaging conversation!

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