Behind the Design: Greek Impressionists
"When I think about the inspiration behind YSSO, my mind always drifts to the golden light and natural beauty of Greece — a place where the landscape, art, and way of life are inseparably intertwined.
Growing up, I always referenced Greek painters like Yiannis Tsarouchis and Panayiotis Tetsis, whose vivid depictions of Aegean blues and rugged coastlines shaped my artistic eye. Much like their art, abstraction and spontaneity plays a very important role in our creative process, hopefully creating works that feel both personal and enduring"
"As a teenager, I spent hours in the National Gallery of Athens, drawn to the works of impressionist painters — their use of colour, light, and atmosphere left a lasting impact on me. That sensibility finds its way into YSSO, not just in form but in the way I approach photography. I see each image as a canvas, playing with bold contrasts, dramatic lighting, and rich tones to capture the depth and movement of our jewellery. It’s a way of storytelling — one that brings the essence of art into the entire collection." - Alexia Karides
Alexia's Tips
You can find paintings by Panayiotis Tetsis in several locations in Greece, particularly in Athens and Hydra.
In Athens, his works are prominently displayed at the National Gallery of Greece, which houses an extensive collection of modern Greek art, including Tetsis' vivid, light-filled depictions of Greek landscapes and everyday life. Another important location is the Academy of Athens, where Tetsis, a member of the Academy, donated his painting materials and a selection of his works.
Finally, his studio and home in Hydra, where he lived and painted for many years, has been preserved and transformed into a cultural space. The Tetsis Home and Studio in Hydra also features some of his works, reflecting his deep connection to the island’s atmosphere, maritime life, and ever-changing light.