Mina Papatheodorou Valiraki – Visual Artist
With significant artistic and theoretical studies, initially at the School of Fine Arts of the National Technical University of Athens and later in Italy with a doctorate, the creator was triumphantly recognized. Her participation in galleries such as Ca d’oro by Tony Porcella, a gallery owned by Giorgio de Chirico, and exhibitions in various cities, including the 1983 Art Fair in Bari, confirmed her artistic evolution. The selection of her work for the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City labeled her as the “Sports Artist of the Year” for 2001-2004. She is the only living Greek female visual artist, with works in the permanent collection of the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career so far?
To become active in Italy from my doctoral years in Florence. America was also something that suited me. I was fortunate with the Academy in the United States! In 2002, they selected me among artists from 64 countries for my entire body of work, focusing on the theme of sports figures and the environment. The Salt Lake City piece, chosen as the official poster for the Winter Games, circled the globe as NBC featured it daily, opening the games with my “Downhill Skier.” The U.S. Sports Academy supports me globally, showcasing my work in numerous museums!
Can you share some key milestones or turning points in your journey?
The thematic choice of F1 holds the dynamism and passion that might set it apart because it resonates with my character. My pivotal moment came in 1998 when I was commissioned as the artist for the monumental work for Lamborghini, the renowned Italian automaker of unique exotic automobiles, “Lamborghini 35th anniversary,”. This marked an exceptional milestone in my career 25 years ago. Another crucial moment this year was the assignment by Lamborghini for the artwork “Lamborghini 60th anniversary“.
Have you experienced any gender-specific challenges with people who tried to set obstacles in your way and discourage you?
1990 – Exhibition of Greek artists in Dallas, Texas, at the Trammel Crow Center, titled “A Glimpse into Contemporary Greek Art.” I was a very young artist, a graduate of the Athens School of Fine Arts under the guidance of Giannis Moralis, with a Ph.D. from the University of Florence. I faced relentless criticism from established male artists for my participation, being young, a mother, and the wife of a prominent politician. It disappointed me as a young woman, but I did not let it deter me. I responded assertively, and since then, no one has attacked me.
Is there something you wish you had known when you started your career?
Everything in my journey was built on a solid foundation, step by step. All came after continuous exploration and through steady and substantial studies over the years, and I continue this journey to this day.
