Kalopsia Eyewear, Patricia Photiou interview 2024

Stories

Kalopsia

Patricia Photiou

Words Alessandra Albarello

24/09/2024

Founder of Kalopsia Revisionist Eyewear, Patricia Photiou has Greek origins but her gaze is turned towards the world, with an idea of unexpected beauty that rhymes with ethics and freedom

The meaning of Kalopsia is very clear, but what about Revisionist?
It’s not one word or the other but the combination of both. Kalopsia refers to the greek word for finding things more beautiful than they are. Revisionist refers to the act of revision; refining, whether in our lives, in the designs, or even the process of making quality eyewear. It is a critical process in understanding and improving our world. It's about reassessing our actions, our roles, and our impact on society. It prompts us to ask ourselves vital questions: What am I doing? Who am I becoming? Do I contribute? It’s about connecting with the innate knowledge of the life you want to (and can) live, leaving a legacy of positive change.

What is the origin of your brand, your philosophy?
Kalopsia is established and based in greece. The origin is universal. This is a movement about seeing the real beauty around us. I see eyewear as a symbol of clarity and vision, metaphorically, as it pertains to our perception and direction in life. having worn glasses as a child, I was quick to see the efficiency of this accessory and the functions that came with it. Eyewear is more than just a wonderful medical device for the eyes. My glasses were (and are) my outfit, my mood, my statement, and my character/identity (which are subject to constant change). The intensity of my life experiences and a passion for connection led me to create a line of eyewear that manifests courage, audaciousness, benevolence and freedom. It was time to break free, to live from the heart, to create. The philosophy is getting out of your comfort zone, living life to its fullest; selflessly and fearlessly.

Aside from the name, how do your Greek roots influence your creations?
The sea and the sun first and foremost! The vivid colours of our nature. I love the ancient architecture and its elements of grandeur, timelessness and elegance. And in hindsight, greece’s age-old philosophical heritage, wisdom and ethics subtly weave through my designs, encouraging wearers to reflect on their values and the world around them. Lastly, it is the contemporary greek lifestyle that is a major influence on me. It’s a little chaotic, with a taste of rebellion but fundamentally conformist. It's this spirit of nonconformity that I wish to ignite! Take that first step, do something different, wear something different, start with a new pair of sunglasses!

What about your creative process and inspirations?
The truth is many of my ideas come to me in my sleep. My creative journey is like a kaleidoscope, each piece reflecting an aspect. Inspiration strikes from the most eclectic sources, be it the soul-stirring rhythms of music, the architectural marvels of past eras, the organic forms in nature, or the unique essence of individuals I encounter. My current state of mind always plays a pivotal role in shaping my designs. The 70s, with its vibrant spirit of freedom and defiance of norms, resonates deeply with me. I have a different approach to each set of designs, which gives me total freedom. Collection One, my first collection, has a lot to do with connection. Number one is a symbol of unity and oneness, it represents beginnings and the start of something new, it is also the number that corresponds to the sun. Collection Sunday is very soulful. Soulful Sundays is the mood. It embodies the soulful ease of a leisurely Sunday, infused with the revolutionary zest of the 70s. It's a collection born out of nostalgic melodies and the carefree motion of roller skating around my kitchen table - a homage to personal liberation and self-expression. Our latest collection, Revolution, is just that. Each of these shapes has an element of rebellion in them. My aim is to craft eyewear that is not only bold and wearable but also timeless and distinctive.

Your vision includes cooperation, reverence, and humanity: how do you translate these ethical values into the aesthetics of your new eyewear collection?
Voluntary cooperation is actually the definition of anarchy (thus our logo). These are values that confident and intrepid people live by. Our frames are big and bold: wearable statements. Statements that exude and embody these virtues. The designs intend to provoke confidence, courage and strength; translating these ethical values into tangible expressions that wearers can proudly showcase.

What is your personal concept of ‘unexpected’ beauty? And your target?
To me, ‘unexpected’ beauty is about embracing a perspective that finds wonder in life's surprises. It's about recognizing that life's journey is filled with gifts, often arriving in the most unforeseen circumstances. Seeing beauty in the unexpected is a point of view. Life goes on no matter what.

All gifts are unexpected! Challenges and setbacks are unexpected too, while initially perceived as negative or painful, they can reveal themselves as unforeseen blessings
in disguise. Our target audience is anyone with an open heart and a curious mind, individuals who are ready to discover beauty in places they least expect it and wear that beauty proudly.

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