Emerging artist makes mystical, vivid escape into myth

Starting Monday, the Samuel J. Zacks Art Gallery will present the work of emerging artist Calliope (Poppy) Michaelidou, in a show titled “A Return To…”.



zacks artIn this exhibit Michaelidou explores worlds of fantasy and mythology, worlds that one might visit as a young child. The Cyprus-born artist draws from and expands on her childhood experiences with fairytales, myths and pagan religious ideas. Her work, with its developed use of light and visible textures, reflects her desire to “bring these stories to life: to make them as real as possible” with the hope of creating an environment where one can stop, relax, reflect and remember.


The Samuel J. Zacks Art Gallery aims to build a bridge for developing artists entering the professional realm by providing the opportunity for students to exhibit alongside practising professionals. In her fourth year of the Visual Arts Program at York University, Michaelidou, is the first emerging artist to exhibit in the 2004-2005 season.


“A Return To…” runs from Sept. 27 to Oct. 15. A reception will be held on Sept. 29,  7-9pm at the gallery, which is located in room 109 Stong College. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday 11:30am-4pm and admission is free.