Meet Dimitri Kanellias | Jeweler / Sculptor

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

Hi Dimitri, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I think about this often. As an artist, your livelihood is tied to your passion, which can make it both exciting and overwhelming. When I first graduated, I burned myself out by taking on every project that came my way while also working a full-time job in the same craft. I’d push myself to the limit, thinking breaks or stepping away would help—but I realized that even then, I still had the urge to create. The issue was I wasn’t working on the projects I truly wanted to. Now, when I’m working on commissions or other people’s projects, I make it a point to pause and create freely. This for me, is anything from doodling, whittling a piece of wood, or trying out a new recipe that I’ve been meaning to try. This gives me the space I need to let ideas flow more naturally and keeps my creative momentum going. It’s far easier to maintain that flow than to stop and start over. Of course, breaks are important when needed, but the key is making time to play, to experiment, and to nourish your creative kid inside.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is all about exploration. I thrive on learning new processes and applying them across all the mediums I work with. I started out studying Industrial Design, but halfway through, I decided to minor in sculpture so I could explore a more open-ended approach to making art, free from the constraints of traditional design. Over time, I’ve developed a real love for working with materials like metal, wood, and ceramics, each of which offers its own unique possibilities.
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to the tactile nature of materials. I used to help my mom, who was a chocolatier, create roses and cake decorations out of chocolate clay. I eventually found my way to fine metals. As a kid I never thought I would be working with gold and diamonds on a regular basis, but being able to work with such precious materials is so rewarding. We all love shiny things.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ooo Astoria Queens is truly the unsung hero of NYC boroughs! Besides having some of the best Greek and Middle Eastern food, I would definitely recommend Kal, a small korean joint, as well as Bench Flour, my go to breakfast if I want to treat myself (but it’s everyone for themselves when it comes to seating). Last but not least, Astoria Park is the prettiest park in the city. Its quaint, great for biking and looks straight out of a Georges Seurat painting.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Big shoutout to Joe Wood, a professor I had at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. He was the one who introduced me to jewelry—specifically through CAD Jewelry 101, the first jewelry class I ever took. I nearly didn’t meet the criteria for the class, but Joe immediately recognized my eagerness to learn and advocated for me. I secured my spot and learned everything from investment casting to the basics of working at the bench. Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts kept me from taking more jewelry classes while in school, but Joe was always in the studio, excited to help me.
Fast forward three years: I moved to New York, jobless and scrambling. I eventually landed a position at Kay Jewelers, and to my surprise, my manager was also a MassArt alum. I was nervous about my limited experience, but during the interview, she said, “Oh, you took a class with Joe Wood? You’ll be fine!” I’m still making jewelry six years later and I am just as excited to keep learning. Thanks, Joe!

Website: https://www.dimitrikanellias.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dkanellias/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitri-kanellias-54ab77174/