Go On, Get Happy. Meet Sofia Daskalaki of Happy Hemera

Bold prints, bright colors and a distinctly happy vibe are all just part of what we love about Happy Hemera. With a new collection launching this week, we wanted a peek inside the artist behind all the fun.  

A talented illustrator, surface designer and licensing artist based in the charming city of Crete, Greece, Sofia embodies passion and creativity as she draws inspiration from the world around her to create her vibrant designs. This month, we asked Sofia just what makes her tick – and inspires her to continually create. 

 Tell us about your personal journey to becoming an artist. 

I've always felt a strong artistic identity within, but the journey to acknowledge it has been challenging. I used to paint on my house walls as a child, explored various mediums, and immersed myself in art until university. Due to career concerns, I left art behind in my early 20s. Four years ago, I rediscovered my passion, inspired by an illustration in a book. Now, I proudly identify as an illustrator, focusing on digital art. 

What inspires you every day? 

My art draws inspiration from the world around me, infusing joy, wonder, and boundless inspiration into my designs. From intricate floral patterns to bold, vivid colors, my work celebrates life and nature.

Tell us about your creative process. 

When starting a new project, I immerse myself in inspiration, collect images, and find the perfect color palette. Sketching is crucial, refining ideas and composition on paper or digitally. I often sketch multiple times to ensure every element serves a purpose. The recoloring stage, with fresh eyes the next day, allows me to refine my work. Final adjustments happen on my computer, where I feel most connected to my artistic flow.

What motivates you to create? 

Drawing and colors have become integral to my life over the past four years. Creating art brings me immeasurable joy, transforming my mood and transporting me to a world of boundless imagination. My artistic journey is a constant source of motivation to explore new horizons.

Who are your biggest influences? 

My profound influences include Paul Klee, Giannis Moralis, Alekos Fasianos, Henri Matisse, and Alexander Girard. Their unique styles, use of color, composition, and emotional conveyance have left an indelible mark on my artistic journey.

Describe your personal design aesthetic. 

My aesthetic blends bold, vibrant colors with simple shapes and artistic lines. I aim for modern simplicity, occasionally adding texture for depth. Drawing fruits, flowers, leaves, and plants brings me joy, evoking energy, positivity, and natural beauty in my designs.

What attracts you to Geometry’s products? 

Geometry's products, made from recycled materials, align with my sustainability values. I appreciate their quality and how they showcase my bold, bright colors.

What inspired this collection? 

This collection aims to be strong, daring, and exciting, spreading happiness and smiles. It's my first significant geometric collection, and it's quickly becoming my favorite. It's a vibrant assortment of geometric designs, inspired by clean lines and simple shapes, aiming to evoke energy, positivity, and natural beauty.

We couldn’t agree more, and we can’t wait for you to see the new Happy Hemera collection! In the meantime, check out Sofia on Instagram or visit her website.