Using a simple thread, Greek artist Petro Vrellis creates portraits inspired by El Greco’s paintings.
Petros Vrellis is an exceptional artist who skillfully combines technological innovations with traditional art and unusual ideas. In his latest series, he has recreated numerous Renaissance paintings by El Greco (Domínikos Theotokópoulos) using a single thread and a circular loom. That’s only possible with the help of advanced technology. Feel free and read more about the complete process below the first image and don’t forget to watch the video.
Petro Vrellis calls it “a new way to knit.” Every new portrait starts with generating a pattern. Coded in openFrameworks, the artist uses a specially designed algorithm that takes as input a digital photograph. Based on this pattern, Petro Vrellis pulls the thread as straight lines across the anchor pegs on the circumference. In this way, one single thread runs from one anchor peg to another for about 3,000 – 4,000 times, reaching a total length of 1 – 2 kilometers. This process is completely done by hand. The tone darkens as the density and the intersections of the black thread increase. For those of you who want to learn more about the entire process, please watch the video below or visit Petro Vrellis’ website.
Check out more inspiring work in our Art category. We show you a handpicked selection of remarkable work created by different artists from all over the world. In addition, we provide you with information on outstanding shows and events. WE AND THE COLOR is your source for the most inspiring art!
