Rooster watercolour on canvas
Hello, I’m Effie Iliopoulos — a mother, wife, grandmother wellness practitioner,, and above all, an artist.
From a very young age, I was always drawn to drawing, often seeking out paper and pencil as a form of relaxation and expression. Over the years, my artistic journey has expanded across many disciplines, including sewing, cross-stitch, tapestry, and porcelain doll making. I have dedicated 21 years to doll making, achieving recognition as a Grandmaster, Triple Crown recipient, and Master Educator in this field.
In 2012, I began working with acrylics through mandala painting, which quickly became a deep passion. This evolved into broader acrylic painting, and in 2019 I began teaching at Artisan of Australia. In my teaching role, I have delivered classes in acrylic painting across a variety of subjects, with a particular love for portraiture. I have also taught mandalas, pencil drawing, charcoal drawing, and mixed media.
More recently, I have developed a strong interest in combining abstract and realism in my work. Alongside my artistic practice, I am also a wellness practitioner. This greatly informs my teaching approach, as I understand that art is not only about technique, but also about emotional expression, confidence, and personal growth.
I have seen firsthand how art can positively impact students. In one instance, I worked with a student who struggled with confidence and engagement. Through encouragement and guiding him to explore colour more deeply, I watched his posture, confidence, and overall presence transform. These moments reinforce my belief that art is a powerful form of therapy -offering a meditative, calming space where individuals can feel safe, expressive, and connected to themselves.
As a teacher, I am attentive to where each student is emotionally and creatively, and I take a patient and supportive approach to help them grow at their own pace. I strive to create a classroom environment that is nurturing, inspiring, and inclusive.
Latest work
Paradise
Acrylics on Canvas
Portrait of a friend
Acrylics on Canvas
Acrylic Painting Classes - All Levels Welcome!
Unlock your creative potential with our acrylic painting classes, designed for both beginners and advanced artists. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to refine your skills, we provide a welcoming environment for everyone to explore the versatile medium of acrylics.
What We Offer:
Beginner-Friendly: Learn the fundamentals of acrylic painting—brushwork, color mixing, and basic techniques—while creating beautiful and expressive works of art. No experience necessary!Advanced Techniques: For those with experience, we dive into more sophisticated methods, including glazing, texture creation, and advanced layering techniques to help you take your art to the next level.Personalized Instruction: Every class is tailored to your individual skill level and artistic goals, ensuring you get the attention and guidance you need to grow as an artist.Creative Freedom: Explore a range of styles—from still life and landscapes to abstract and contemporary works. The only limit is your imagination!Small Class Sizes: We keep our classes small so that you can receive personalized attention and feel supported throughout your artistic journey.
What You'll Learn:Basic to advanced brush techniques and mark-makingThe art of color mixing and understanding color theoryLayering and glazing techniques to create depth and texture
How to work with acrylic mediums to expand your creative possibilitiesComposition and perspective tips for stronger, more dynamic paintingsFirst session everyone will be painting the same image, so I can teach you the basics. after that you can choice what you wish to paint.Why Acrylics?Acrylic paint is quick-drying, versatile, and forgiving—ideal for both beginners and more advanced artists. Whether you enjoy working with bold, expressive strokes or prefer fine detail, acrylics offer endless possibilities for your artistic exploration.Do you need tools?You will need to purchase a tool kit to start. I have sources good products to make your painting easier. If you have the right tools it makes your work easy. However if you are an experienced painter you can bring your own tool kit, with option to purchase anything of our tools kit. Join Us Today!Whether you’re just beginning or looking to expand your knowledge, our acrylic painting classes provide the perfect space for you to develop your skills, express your creativity, and have fun along the way.Sign up now and start your artistic journey with acrylics!
JOIN US IN ART CLASS
ALL LEVELS WELCOME
Acrylic Painting Classes - All Levels Welcome!
Unlock your creative potential with our acrylic painting classes, designed for both beginners and advanced artists. Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to refine your skills, we provide a welcoming environment for everyone to explore the versatile medium of acrylics.
What We Offer:
-
Beginner-Friendly: Learn the fundamentals of acrylic painting—brushwork, color mixing, and basic techniques—while creating beautiful and expressive works of art. No experience necessary!
-
Advanced Techniques: For those with experience, we dive into more sophisticated methods, including glazing, texture creation, and advanced layering techniques to help you take your art to the next level.
-
Personalized Instruction: Every class is tailored to your individual skill level and artistic goals, ensuring you get the attention and guidance you need to grow as an artist.
-
Creative Freedom: Explore a range of styles—from still life and landscapes to abstract and contemporary works. The only limit is your imagination!
-
Small Class Sizes: We keep our classes small so that you can receive personalized attention and feel supported throughout your artistic journey.
What You'll Learn:
-
Basic to advanced brush techniques and mark-making
-
The art of color mixing and understanding color theory
-
Layering and glazing techniques to create depth and texture
-
How to work with acrylic mediums to expand your creative possibilities
-
Composition and perspective tips for stronger, more dynamic paintings
Why Acrylics?
Acrylic paint is quick-drying, versatile, and forgiving—ideal for both beginners and more advanced artists. Whether you enjoy working with bold, expressive strokes or prefer fine detail, acrylics offer endless possibilities for your artistic exploration.
Do you need tools?
You will need to purchase a tool kit to start. I have sources good products to make your painting easier. If you have the right tools it makes your work easy. However if you are an experienced painter you can bring your own tool kit, with option to purchase anything of our tools kit.
Join Us Today!
Whether you’re just beginning or looking to expand your knowledge, our acrylic painting classes provide the perfect space for you to develop your skills, express your creativity, and have fun along the way.
Sign up now and start your artistic journey with acrylics!
TESTIMONIALS
Effie is an amazing teacher, I hadn't done much in the way of acrylic painting before, but Effie with her patience and guidance I was able to explore my creativity in a calming environment, her dedication to help build confidence not just in art but in myself so important.
Fixxxx
I became acquainted with Effie while she lived on the Bellarine Peninsular. She attended an art class I taught at the SpringDale Centre to further develop her skill base and went on to become a valued colleague as a member of the Springdale Artists and then as a tutor at Artisans in Drysdale, before her return to Melbourne.
Effie was an astute colleague, always keen to share her many skills and contribute to the furtherance of Art. She is a highly skilled practicing artist and tutor with a wide range of art processes to pass on.
She is also generous in sharing her knowledge and contributing actively.
I highly recommend her.
Annette Playsted
B Ed., Art Tutor, SpringDale Neighbourhood Centre, Drysdale
