Alumni Spotlight: Dimitri Spiridakis

Alumni Spotlight:

Dimitri Spiridakis

Dimitri Spiridakis is an aspiring painter and illustrator from Long Island, New York, and is currently enrolled at Bard College where he studies Studio Art. His body of work includes work in acrylic and oil paint and work in charcoal and graphite.

Rome Art Program: How did your time with RAP influence your work?

Dimitri: The courses at the program had us drawing and painting intricate statuary and city scenes very quickly. It helped me think on my feet and come up with strategies for rendering complex objects quickly: more effective hatching for example. We were also exposed to some of the finest craftsmanship in art history, which was greatly inspiring.

RAP: What was your favorite place in Rome and why?

Dimitri: I would say my favorite area in Rome is Prati. The old city is more beautiful, but the quieter nature of the residential district makes me feel at home.

RAP: What are you working on now? What are your hopes for the future?

Dimitri: Currently, finishing my art education at Bard College with my advisor Joe Santore. In the future, I would love to do paintings on commission or work as a character illustrator.

RAP: What has been your biggest art success since studying in Rome?

Dimitri: It’s hard to say what my biggest success has been since the program ended. I’ve made more than a few paintings I’m proud of though, and the faculty at my school seem to approve of them. One of my favorites so far is an acrylic painting of a dumpster next to my studio.

RAP: What is your advice for future RAP students?

Dimitri: Practice before you get there so you can take greater advantage of the course! Watercolors are a tricky medium to work with, and you’ll be working with them frequently during the course. Do some life drawing beforehand too: it will be easier for you to take advantage of the courses with some warming up.

dimitrispiridakis.com I @dimitrispiridakis_art