THE BIG STEP Print

Konstantinos Botas (Pimba) He was born in Giannitsa (Northern Greece) in 1966. **Pimba** is a self-taught visual artist working across painting, woodcarving, and handmade jewelry. His artistic journey began during adolescence with pen and ink drawing on paper, alongside experiments with watercolor. Over time, his practice evolved to include acrylic painting with airbrush on canvas, through which he developed a distinctive and personal visual language. His paintings explore themes of landscapes, portraits, still life, and abstract compositions. Many works are inspired by photographic material taken during his travels, translating lived experiences, light, and memories of places onto paper and canvas. The techniques he employs include pen and ink on paper, watercolor with brush, and acrylics with airbrush on canvas. Woodcarving is a central pillar of his artistic expression. His sculptural works include three-dimensional female figures and forms, carved boxes, spoons, and stop-sticks, primarily crafted from wood. His engagement with woodcarving was shaped and deepened on Gavdos, a small island rich in cedar wood, which has profoundly influenced both his aesthetic and creative philosophy. During the summer months, Pimba lives on Gavdos in close connection with nature, setting up a small open-air workshop and stand near the shoreline, where he presents his woodcrafts and handmade jewelry. The island’s natural environment—sun, sea, and landscape—serves as a continuous source of inspiration, fostering new dimensions of creativity. His handmade jewelry is created from wood, stone, and glass, and includes pendants, earrings, rings, and keychains, combining natural materials with simplicity, authenticity, and functionality. The artistic name **Pimba** originates from the local dialect of Gavdos and means “full” or “complete,” reflecting both his personal connection to the island and the sense of creative fulfillment he experiences there. He has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions in Greece and abroad, presenting works in painting and woodcarving.