Xrista Stavrou

Where presence becomes power.

Xrista Stavrou’s artistic practice is a direct reflection of her imagination, emotions, and personal experiences. For over fifteen years, she has drawn inspiration from the most subtle aspects of daily life, transforming everyday moments into works that explore human resilience and emotional depth. Her creative process is driven by a constant search for peace and a desire to process life's complexities through visual form.

The artist specialises in digital painting and illustration, maintaining a fluid and unrestricted style. By refusing to be confined to a specific technique, she remains faithful to her spontaneous creativity and evolving imagination. This approach allows her to navigate between diverse themes, from vibrant character designs to intricate, symbolic portraits that capture the profound feelings hidden behind a gaze.

Central to Xrista’s philosophy is the concept of communication and freedom of thought. She creates with a meticulous attention to detail and a rich palette, yet avoids imposing a predefined meaning on her subjects. Instead, she invites the viewer to travel through her art and discover their own emotional reactions, fostering a unique connection between the work and the au...

EDUCATION

1986-1988
Xrista studied for three years at the workshop of the award-winning late Cypriot
painter Lefteris Economou.
Nicosia, Cyprus

1992 - B’ Kykkos Lyceum
Attending Technical Drawing Classes
Xrista received a prize for the Highest Performance in Technical Drawing and an award for excellent performance in History of Art and Technical Drawing.
Nicosia, Cyprus

1993 - 1994 Frederick University
Higher National Diploma (HND) in Graphic Art & Advertising Design
Xrista received a full scholarship to Frederick University for the academic year 1993-1994, as the first among all students.

1994 Frederick University
Xrista received a Commendation Certificate for the highest average mark in the graduating class.

1994-1997
BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design
Xrista studied at the University of the Arts London in the area of «Graphic and Media Design».
London, UK

Her artwork “Skull Art Queen” was selected by Amber Lotus Publishing Ltd. for the Day of the Dead 2016 – Sugar Skulls Calendar, published in July 2015, appearing alongside leading artists in the genre. In 2017, her piece “Skull Art Queen with Butterflies” was again selected by Amber Lotus for the Sugar Skulls 2018 – Day of the Dead Calendar (Mini & Wall editi...

Volunteer & Early Career Highlights
In 2013, Xrista collaborated with Etherial Brand as Product Manager for the “Be a Hero” T‑shirt collection supporting PASYKAF, creating silkscreen‑printed skull designs that elevated the project’s artistic identity. In 2014, she designed and presented the Etherial SS15 Collection at the largest fashion show in Nicosia, held at the Presidential House. In 2015, as a member of E.KA.T.E., she participated in an honorary group exhibition at Famagusta Gate, Nicosia.

Publications
Her artwork “Skull Art Queen” was selected by Amber Lotus Publishing Ltd. for the Day of the Dead 2016 – Sugar Skulls Calendar (Published July 22, 2015, ISBN: 978‑1‑63136‑009‑1), appearing alongside leading contemporary skull artists.
The same artwork was included in the Skull Sourcebook – Over 500 Skulls in Art & Culture (Race Point Publishing, New York, Published May 10, 2016, ISBN: 978‑1‑63106‑158‑5), a major reference featuring artists such as Damien Hirst and George Ioannou.

In 2016, she illustrated the children’s book “The Santa Claus’ Hat” (Published December 2016, ISBN: 978‑9963‑271‑21‑4), creating a full set of vibrant digital illustrations.

Her artwork “Skull Art Queen with Butterflies” was selected aga...