We had the good fortune of connecting with Joanna Chrysohoidis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joanna, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
I have two daughters the most important thing I’ve done as a parent in terms of impact on them, is to let them express their creativity and to encourage them to follow their instincts.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My current work is focused on a layering technique of colored dots on canvas. With a background in textiles, texture has always been a prominent element in my work. I believe color and technique set me apart, as well as pushing boundaries. The process of painting an abundance of dots is meticulous, there are thousands per canvas! But I am happiest when I am painting, its a form of meditation for me. I can paint for hours at a time. Recently I have incorporated plexiglass in my work. Instead of canvas I paint directly on the glass and add infinity mirrors and LED lights to create sculptures. I am always evolving in my work and like to try new things. My journey definitely hasn’t been easy, especially in the beginning of my career. But I was so persistent, I wouldn’t take no for an answer! What I would want the world to take away from my art is happiness and love. I want to make the viewer smile and get lost in an unusual, ethereal place. It makes me so happy when I receive feedback saying that my art is healing for a lot of people.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Our itinerary would definitely include taking a walk down Melrose Ave, grabbing sandwiches from Mel and Rose, and stopping at Alfred’s for coffee. For dinner I would probably take them to The Little Door in West Hollywood. In-N-Out or Norms could be an option too, I love their burgers! Barney’s Beanery, Jim Morrison’s old hangout, is a place I take all my guests from out of town to! I love visiting the Getty Center and the Griffith Observatory has great movies in their dome theater. Lake Shrine Meditation Temple is a peaceful place I recently discovered and the farmer’s market at The Grove is fun! Driving through Beverly Hills and the Hollywood Hills are a must! My favorite local cafe is The Assembly on Robertson Ave. My work will be on display there too, this Spring!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a shoutout to Tom Megalis a Greek American artist who I met here on Voyage LA a couple of years ago! He’s been very supportive of my art and I would like to dedicate my shoutout to his wonderful art that is influenced by Greek culture. There’s a story behind each of his paintings and he puts a lot of thought and detail in each piece. He has a great sense of color and humor.

Website: https://www.joannachrys.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannachrysohoidis/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joanna.chrysohoidis