Elafonissi Beach Print

Sofokli J. Telo, born on October 10, 1976, was introduced to art at an early age. His world was shaped by the influences of his father, Jorgo S. Telo, a teacher, artist and an accomplished writer. His upbringing, guided by the love and support of his mother, Kasiani, instilled in him the appreciation for life's most significant treasures. Growing up amidst the serene landscapes of his hometown Zagori and the enchantment of his father's artistry, Sofokli's youthful imagination was nourished by the wonders of nature and the stories within the pages of books. Drawing became his sanctuary—a place where observation, imagination, and artistic expression intertwined seamlessly. At the age of 12, his passion for drawing intensified, spurred on by the invaluable support of his childhood friend, F. Thimjo. It was during this time that Sofokli started developing his artistic skills by exploring the immense beauty of nature, laying the groundwork for his artistic endeavors. Formal education led him to the art school in Gjirokastra at 14, where under the guidance of mentors like S. Çati, D.Topulli he mastered the nuances of oil paints, expanding his artistic repertoire. Upon moving to Athens at the age of 20, Sofokli found himself reunited with Miri, a sculptor and old schoolmate, whose creative spirit mirrored his own. In the vibrant artistic community of Athens, surrounded by peers and mentors, including the famous painter D. Yeros, Sofokli mastered his painting skills. Days & nights ,turned into immersive explorations of self-discovery within his craft, pushing boundaries, and seeking profound depths in his creations The pursuit of artistic excellence led him to various galleries in Athens, culminating in his debut on the international art scene with an exhibition in New York City in April 2015. His journey continued, marked by exhibitions across prestigious art shows in Miami, San Diego, and beyond, culminating in a move to the United States in 2018. Sofokli found his home in the Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania, where his artistic journey flourished. In 2019, his dedication and talent were recognized as he earned accolades at the Art San Diego, affirming his place in the art world. With a profound belief in the transformative power of art, Sofokli seeks to leave an enduring legacy through his works, aiming to touch troubled souls and elevate spirits through his art.