Daphne Keskinis
Sylvie by Daphne Keskinis
Daphné was born in Paris, France. Her whole family is involved in the history of art. Her heritage comes from afar. Her grandfather was an official portrait artist for presidents, kings and director of “ecole des Beaux Arts”. His work is represented in numerous museums. Her mother was a traditional watercolor artist. At the age of 21, Daphne’ moved to New York to show her artwork in an exclusive gallery.
Daphné started with oils and pastels, but for over 40 years has been enraptured by the medium of enamel. She studied with an old master, “Maitre Corlin”, who was a friend of Picassco and Braque. She currently works with oils and enamels from her Studio Gallery in Carefree, Arizona and in South France. In the inspiration of the new and old world, her subjects are versatile, bringing a force and excitement in panorama of both continents.
Enameling is the colorful result of fusing powdered glass to metal or glass by firing. The powder melts, flows and hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating. Applied enamel pottery and stone objects date back to the ancient Egyptians. The French invented the technique of “painting” with a special enamel called “blanc de Limoges” over a dark enameled surface to form a detailed picture, often human figure. Limoges enamel, made in Limoges, France is the most famous European centre of vitreous enamel production.
When Daphné paints the fused powdered glass to copper, she creates ancient gardens, views of restaurants and cafes, chefs, religious images, and gorgeous bouquets. In the past few years, she has been creating contemporary paneled wall hangings where the flowing colors create emotional movement. Her enameled fabulous faces seem to speak to you as if they are someone you know.
Daphné has been oil and enamel painting at the Celebration of Fine Art since 1993. To see if one of her faces speak to you or to learn more about enamel painting, visit her studio at the Celebration January 16 through March 29, 2010.
Jerry Richardson
Sep 25th, 2009
Gorgeous enamel images and very interesting details on Daphne and enamel. Have a great show!
Liana Sofia Tumino
Nov 10th, 2009
What an incredible history, no wonder I have always found the work to be full of depth and with a lovely european flair…the vibrancy of color and occasional touch of whimsy are just plain wonderful! A unique and challenging medium that adds to the already diverse spectrum of art and artists of the Celebration! Thank you for sharing Daphne’s story! Looking forward to a fantastic 20th anniversary!
April Longmore
Dec 4th, 2009
Love your work Grandma Daphne. It is so beautiful. Loved reading the story.
The AlSamarai's
Dec 5th, 2009
It is so awesome to see your artwork recognized in such a brilliant light!! You are such a great person and your wonderful personality shines through your work. You are very fortunate to have such a gifted talent and your work is such a lovely way for you to share your feelings, emotions and yourself! Thank you for sharing! Continue doing as you are, we appreciate it…. really!
Ken Donmoyer
Dec 6th, 2009
I feel honored to have several of Daphne’s outstanding enamel on copper paintings in my private collection. They are admired by all who visit my apartment. Congratulations on this wonderful story! I wish you the very best in the New Year.
Jeanne Smith
Dec 7th, 2009
Daphne, Congratulations on this honor! I am so excited for you and for the Celebration this year. Your work is extremely beautiful and completely unique. Hugs, my friend! Jeanne
Linda Rupard
Dec 18th, 2009
What an interesting medium. You have some wonderful work.
Linda
Pat Mitchell
Dec 24th, 2009
Looking forward to seeing the show in 2010, Daphne.