ΜYSTiS by SOFIA ZARARI began her journey in the Cosmos of Jewelry with the desire to leave her imprint, to create her own symbolic alphabet. For the MYSTiS label, the Initiation is an apocalypse equal to that of the creation. When a creator finds herself facing the fruits of her labour, she has passed through a process of gradual revelation of her inner world.
The word Mystis has travelled through the annals of Greek history from the Ancient Mysteries of Eleusis. A Mystis, to be described as an Initiate, has delved into her inner world, been enlightened by the meaning of the symbolism of mysteries and rituals, as well as enveloping an insight into ultimate or hidden truths. She has the opportunity to take possession of viewing the world in a different way, of understanding the complex rules of the Universe. From the ancient times each Initiate had the obligation to remain silent, swearing a vow of secrecy of the highest mystic truths.
MYSTiS believes passionately in a Cosmic Truth. The Universe is based on laws and with our evolution, we become aware of its power, wisdom and perpetuity. These levels of knowledge need to be protected from those who have not yet achieved this corresponding stage of awareness.
For the MYSTiS, the Magic is her own personal truth. She not only embraces that which is visible, but she gives particular emphasis to her intuition, as well as harnessing the energy of the outer world. She also finds a formidable teacher yet a soothing healer in her connection with Mother Nature. She observes the circle of life, the signs of which unfold before her; the omens as they were called by the Ancients. She follows her own daily rituals, in gratitude for the gift of life.
She has been taught by ancient civilizations and never forgotten to commemorate her roots. Her family members served as her first teachers and it is they who gave her the foundations of aesthetics. She recognizes and is attracted to the diversity of contemporary culture. The pieces of MYSTiS Jewelry travel across time and history, seeking to delve into the subconscious and narrate personal stories.
Each piece offers both strength and protection to whosoever wears them.
Sofia Zarari cinitially studied Political Science at Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences in Athens to better understand the world. She then continued with studies in Jewelry Design at Mokume Silversmithing and Jewelry Design School in Athens followed by wax modeling at Accademia delle Arti Orafe in Rome.
In 1997, she began working as a Fine Jewelry Designer in leading jewelry companies and systematically participated in the most significant European exhibitions.
Armed with collage and assemblage techniques, she manages to transcend the boundaries of small-scale art and the rules of the wearable art of jewelry to express herself through visual art.
In latter years, she has focused her perspective on the social face of art.
She occasionally uses performance art—movement and speech—as a means to approach cultures, revive primitive practices, decode symbols and understand their meanings.
She has gained invaluable experience teaching jewelry during her career.
The written word has also become an important channel for expression. Ηer texts have complemented art exhibitions and have been published in the digital press.
2018 saw the opening of a new window of communication with the public by launching the label MYSTiS by SOFIA ZARARI.
Three landmarks in her career are her collaborations with the Benaki Museum, the Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum and the NEON Organisation for Culture and Development in Athens.
She systematically participates in solo and group exhibitions.
Her works are included in private collections and museums around the world.
Image taken from Internet