Yiassou! My name is Irene Archos (code name: Greek American Girl). I am a writer/blogger/journalist, educator, expressive arts workshop leader, photographer and encaustic artist. I am bursting with creative energy which is what I bring to whatever endeavor I spark. I am especially interested in using creativity to heal, in the service of health. As a consultant, I teach courses, run workshops, lead tours, and bring communities of people together (while also creating articles, videos, graphic novels, photo exhibits and paintings from my studio in Astoria/LIC). Art and the power of the imagination have so enriched my life that I help unleash each person’s creativity to enhance his/her well-being.
I am working towards certification as a Registered Expressive Arts Educator and Facilitator (REACE) with the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association. I use a mix of expressive arts techniques, including drama therapy, journal therapy, art, crafting, even eco-walk therapy; it depends on what the needs of each individual or group are. These workshops are geared to improving coping strategies, providing stress relief, improving cognitive thinking, reducing rumination, increasing mindfulness, deepening self identity, understanding patterns and choices, reducing internal and external conflicts, improving interpersonal communication, solidifying community involvement and enhancing self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-image. All this through the arts.
I believe culture plays a tremendous role in creativity and self-discovery. I bring artistic techniques from my Hellenic culture to the service of positive living. However, I respect and recognize the contribution of other cultures and ethnicities and am mindful to bring artifacts and techniques that speak to their collective history in the service of community building, empowerment, and consciousness raising. Hablo español.
I especially work to help women and girls from underrepresented populations increase their self-esteem, understand themselves, and celebrate their achievements.
Mission:
- To connect, educate, empower and celebrate communities through the power of expressive arts.
- to allow participants the opportunity to channel their creativity through a variety of media and art forms with the aim of expediting the healing process, increasing self-awareness, and forging connection to others in their community.
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9 COMMENTS
Irene – I loved your post on the Greek move – really related to the American dream being dead – and no one is really touching on this so thank you for putting your self out there.
I am hoping to move to Greece, (I was born in Athens – but no longer carry a Passport – so have to buy in with Real Estate).
Hi Irene, My husband and I are thinking to move to Greece too… its great to see other people with similar journeys. Its an easy decision but I believe its worth a try.
BRAVO! A wonderful article. Thank you for referencing the (KPHTH) Crete Magazine. The editorial board worked tirelessly with me to gather together the facts. We are grateful for the work you are doing.
Dear Mr Antonakakis
I am looking to research a mini-documentary on the role of Greek women guerrilla fighters during the War. My grandmother was from Sfakia and I know she took care of more than one German paratrooper who fell into her fields. I would appreciate the support for the Krhth magazine to publicize it once I get it going. All the best!
Good morning! I met you at John Bowne last spring but lost your contact info to order your wonderful soaps for our store! Please contact me! at
have a wonderful day!
You can always reach me via email greekamgirl@gmail.com
I’m the son of a Greek Cypriot father & an English Mother with Scottish Ancestry. I love my Greek heritage. What a great site .Bravo!! Keep up the good work . God Bless . xx
Thanks Paul. Can I send you info about supporting us on our Patreon page? I am doing this without any help. Even one euro makes a difference. Keep it Greek!
Hi!
I’m trying to do research about greek female street/graffiti artists and wanted to know if you know of any artists? I’ve already found some artists through google search but want to expand to people who might not have a big presence online!