Katerina Makriyianni for 'ΗΛΙΟΔΩΡΟΝ' project, curated by Despina Vergidi Studio for its 5th anniversary. 

‘A Common Source.

Infinite paths of light.

Each line follows its own path. Yet all of them share the same starting point.

The first pin was born from this very thought. From the image of a creative community of people moving alongside one another, independently, each with their own identity, their own language, and their own path, while sharing a common core.

For me, that core is Despina. Through her studio, she has managed to bring together creative people who may not know one another, without limiting their individuality. She creates the space for each person to remain themselves within a community that shares common values and a shared sensitivity.

The first pin is my first visual translation of this experience. It has intensity and makes “noise”; it claims its space. Its lines begin from a common starting point and open out in different directions. Like the different creatives around Despina’s studio. Each one follows their own path, with their own identity and expression.

But when it was completed, I felt that it could not stand alone.

And so the second pin was born. Quieter, more minimal, closer to Despina’s aesthetic. A continuation of the same thought.

The “turn” of the metal within its form symbolizes the unexpected: that moment when the path changes direction and invites us to adapt, to continue, and to evolve.

Silk, delicate as a material, speaks of the sensitivity inherent in the creative process until a work is completed. At the same time, for me, it expresses Despina’s own sensitivity and the way she approaches people and creativity.

The pearls bring the idea of uniqueness. No two are exactly alike; each retains its own character, just like the different creative voices that come together around the studio.

The two pins, then, are a continuation of the same thought. A tribute to individual expression, connection, and the joy we seek through creation.’

• This is the first of the two brooches Katerina designed for the project.
• Limited edition of 6.
• Made to order
• Length 7cm
• Width 5cm
• Materials: Handmade brooch crafted from bronze with 24k vermeil gold on top and zircon.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

A creative, collaborative project that invites twelve artists, creatives and wellness practitioners to create a unique one-of-a-kind or limited-edition design or artwork, or an immersive experience inspired by the studio's symbols -the SUN and the EGG- and their symbolisms.

The theme is open to interpretation, giving participants the space to approach it in their own unique way, through the prism that joy is worth pursuing -a concept extensively explored in artist and educator Ellie Tsatsou-Palmer’s innovative educational project Integrated Creativity.

JULY 14 - OCTOBER 31 2026

Read more on despinavergidi.studio/heliodoron