Elias Damianakis
“With an extraordinary ability to infuse life into the sacred art of iconography, Damianakis has breathed new vitality into an age-old tradition, rendering it both timeless and contemporary. His canvases become portals to spiritual realms, where faith and artistic expression merge in a harmonious dance that captivates the heart and mind. Through his masterful strokes, he unveils a world where symbolism speaks volumes, where every hue and line carries a profound narrative of divinity and human experience.”
The Artist
Elias Damianakis,
The world's renowned artist iconographer, stands as a true maestro of his craft, a virtuoso whose work transcends mere canvas and paint to touch the very essence of human spirit.
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Archon Elias Damianakis is a celebrated Artist, Byzantine Iconographer, author, and innovative internet entrepreneur.
Archon Damianakis is an internationally renowned Master Iconographer. He lectures and offered Master Classes around the world: Athens, London, Moscow and St Petersburg, Russia. Taught iconography at Hellenic College/Holy Cross School of Theology and founded the School of Iconography. His online hub is Archonelias.com
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Archon Damianakis received the Medal of St. Paul GOARCH, for service to the YAL, as Archdiocesan Conference Chairman (1987), Archangel Michael Medal, Holy Metropolis of Atlanta; served as US Delegate to the Millennium International Clergy-Laity-Conference, Constantinople (2000).
Archon Elias received numerous civic awards, notably a Special Congressional Recognition (2017). He is a celebrated online pioneer, dubbed an "Evangelist of Beauty." He Establishes/underwrites websites dedicated to Orthodoxy, Iconography, Religious Freedom, and "Orthodoxy and the Environment" OIKOU.org
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Participated in frequent Archon pilgrimages to the Ecumenical Patriarchate: Historic Return of the Relics (2004); witnessed visitations of Pope Benedict (2006); Pope Francis (2014); several official Archon trips; Smyrna, Cappadocia, Ankara, Jerusalem, Sinai.
Archon Elias attended two Synaxis of Orthodox Primates Sunday of Orthodoxy (2014) Constantinople; celebrated several historic events in Constantinople: Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of His All Holiness' elevation to the Ecumenical Throne (2011). Participated in several International Religious Freedom Symposiums: EU Parliament Brussels (2010); Washington DC, (2017); joined His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros on his historic return to Constantinople (2019)
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Elias and his wife, Angela (Psychotherapist, LCSW), grew up at Holy Trinity, Hicksville, NY and married in 1991. They have three children Theophani (son-in-law, Stylianos Sarigiannis), Stavronikitas (daughter-in-law Kristen Karavantos-Love) all four graduates of HCHC, Euphemia (16) and grandson Elias.
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“Elias Damianakis’ artistic journey is an odyssey of dedication, innovation, and the pursuit of perfection. His intricate brushwork reveals a deep reverence for the historical roots of iconography, yet it also boldly embraces innovation, infusing modern sensibilities into his creations. This fusion of tradition and modernity imbues his work with a captivating dynamism, drawing in a diverse audience that spans generations and cultures.”
Photo Gallery
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"Critics and patrons alike marvel at Damianakis' ability to capture the intangible, to give form to the ineffable. His icons are not mere static images; they are vessels of emotion, conduits of spirituality that ignite a profound connection with the divine. Each piece emanates a radiant aura, inviting contemplation and fostering a deeper understanding of the mysteries that lie beyond the visible world."
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"Elias Damianakis' influence is not confined to gallery walls. His workshops and teachings have ignited a resurgence of interest in the ancient art of iconography, nurturing a new generation of passionate artists who seek to follow in his footsteps. His commitment to passing on his wisdom ensures that the flame he ignited will continue to burn brightly for generations to come."
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"In the realm of art, some figures stand as luminous beacons, guiding us through a visual journey that touches our souls. Elias Damianakis is undeniably one of these figures, a beacon whose brilliance shines across the world, illuminating hearts, minds, and spirits with the enduring magic of his artistic prowess."
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"Ladies and gentlemen, art enthusiasts, and admirers of creative brilliance, allow me to introduce you to a luminary whose name resonates throughout the global artistic tapestry like a symphony of colors and emotions. Elias Damianakis, the world's renowned artist iconographer, stands as a true maestro of his craft, a virtuoso whose work transcends mere canvas and paint to touch the very essence of human spirit."
