Eleftheria Logotheti

Elixriso

Embroiderer

©Eikona

The fine stitches of Greek symbolism

Eleftheria creates embroidered jewellery with the traditional Karsaniko stitch
She learned the craft from her grandmother
She opened her workshop in 2020 in Lefkada, where this unique craft was developed

Eleftheria Logotheti was taught the traditional Karsaniko embroidery by her grandmother. Inspired by a piece of jewellery she was gifted, she decided to combine her favourite craft with jewellery making. In 2016, Eleftheria followed her calling to preserve her childhood memories of her grandmother embroidering on the island’s alleyways and set out to create a bridge between the past and the present, utilising the traditional karsaniko stitch. Self-taught when it comes to jewellery creation, Eleftheria creates unique necklaces, earrings, brooches and more, under the name, Elixriso. "Each piece of jewellery is a unique creation that requires hours of work and dedication. With every item I create, I express my love for the art of embroidery,” she says.

Interview

©Eikona

©Eikona

How is your craft linked to the region where you live?: The traditional Karsaniko embroidery that I use to create jewellery and accessories is the folk art of my island, Lefkada. It is an embroidery technique that is more than 200 years old and was created by a woman from Karya village. It is a unique embroidery stitch and is the one that provided income for many families in the last century.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: My work combines the traditional Karsaniko stitch with modern designs and materials. I use motifs inspired by the folk art of Lefkada, our cultural heritage. By introducing colours and modern materials such as semi-precious stones and metals, I create unique embroidered motifs. The jewellery and accessories I create honour the past while offering something fresh and unique.
What do you love most about your craft?: The creative process and being able to express myself through creating jewellery. Embroidery inspires me and allows me to express my imagination and personal aesthetics. I also love the satisfaction I feel when I see my customers smiling because my creations make them stand out.
Could your craft be considered endangered?: Traditional Karsaniko embroidery was included in the list of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2019 as something that must be preserved. Nowadays there are very few artisans who know how to embroider. I believe that we should contribute to the preservation and development of this precious craft by supporting the creators of embroidered jewellery and by promoting heritage education and awareness.

Eleftheria Logotheti is a rising star: she began her career in 2017 and she started teaching in 2020