Meet Theodora Miller: Turning resilience into art, inspired by Greece

When we first connected with Theodora for our Greek Women in Business series, she was hosting the Art of Living Well retreat in the Peloponnese with fellow entrepreneur Katrina Paraskevopoulos of Eyia Retreats. Their visit included an olive tasting at Oleosophia, one of our cherished artisans—proof that some connections are simply meant to be.

Theodora’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From overcoming the challenges of a traumatic brain injury to creating a thriving career as an artist, her story is a beautiful blend of resilience, passion, and creativity. Her art, rooted in Greek culture and the memories of summers in Greece, brings vibrant color and meaning to the world around her.

Can you share a little bit about yourself?

Hello, I’m Theodora Miller and I’m a visual artist, ceramicist and creative entrepreneur. I am a first-generation Greek American and grew up on the west coast of Florida. After graduating college in North Carolina, I settled in Richmond, Virginia and have been here ever since. My husband George and I raised three children and are adjusting to being empty nesters!

Your story and evolution into an artist is so inspiring. Can you share some pivotal moments that shaped your path?

My busy life came to a screeching halt 10 years ago. I fell down the stairs and suffered a traumatic brain injury. It affected my vestibular system and couldn’t read, had trouble speaking and was sensitive to light, sound and motion. I had debilitating headaches and nausea. I was out of work for months and lived with immense fear that I would never recover. I fell into a deep depression as the recovery process was so slow.

My concussion doctors and cognitive therapists recommended that I try doing something with my hands to pass the time. I started painting without any expectation of a final product. Instead, I painted to release my emotions. If you look at that early work it was jarring dark colors and such sadness. But as the days passed, I would return and see a new pathway to take, new layer of color to add. I started to notice that I could paint for longer periods of time and the negative thoughts in my head would silence. Artful living took on a new meaning, it became an essential part of my healing.

I eventually returned to work and a busy life once again, but the art kept calling me back. It’s the one thing I could do for myself that would calm me to the core and make me feel at ease. So I continued to create during stolen moments of nights and weekends. People began to notice and asked to purchase my art. It was a side hustle for 7 years as I continued to develop my artistic voice and grow the business organically. Two years ago (and after 30 years in financial services and nonprofit leadership), I took the leap to become a full-time artist.

How has your Greek heritage influenced your work? Are there particular cultural elements or memories that find their way into your art?

I’m endlessly inspired by all things Hellenic and relive indelible moments of my childhood summers in Greece. Everywhere I turn the culture, virtues, architecture, ancient symbols, colors, and shapes make their way into my creations with a contemporary flair.

After my mother passed away in 2016, I was overcome from grief. As the days turned to weeks and months, I was lamenting our daily calls and her voice of wisdom. She had a Greek proverb for every situation! Back then I would laugh those off, but after she was gone I needed a way to feel closer to her. I researched Greek writers and philosophers searching for proverbs and poems that would give me courage and strength. That became the impetus for my meditative painting technique in which I memorize and recite each Greek word with every brushstroke.

The first one that I latched onto is by Nikos Kazantzakis, “You have the brushes. You have the colors. Paint paradise and get in.” It became my mantra for chasing after this dream of becoming a full-time artist. I fondly call this painting “Paradeiso”.

Another one that I love is by Nikos Gatsos, “And if you thirst for water, we will squeeze a cloud.” This is the epitome of the unconditional and selfless love that a Greek mother/Yia Yia has for her children and their children. It also reminds me of the beauty of standing up for what you believe to help others in need. I fondly call this painting “Perserverance.”

After a while, I began to ask myself what do I want to put out into the world. That’s when I came up with my 7 Wishes collection. Through my research I discovered that the number seven is considered positive in nearly every culture and religion. I selected the Greek words for hope, health, luck, love, happiness, joy and peace showcasing my meditative painting technique. The designs have expanded beyond paintings to ceramics, textiles and most recently a handcrafted 7 Wishes Medallion, inspired by ancient coins that have stood the test of time, to remind us to stay strong no matter what life throws our way. It’s my way of sending positivity and blessings into the world and to the people and spaces you adore.

Could you walk us through your creative process and what inspires your unique style?

I’m very sensitive to environment so it’s essential for me to be surrounded by light where I can feel peaceful before getting started. I fluctuate between meditative paintings using my signature calligraphic designs to painting sessions that are just pure play and exploration of colors, textures and even shadows.

I rarely work on just one piece at a time. Some have called watching me work like watching a hummingbird buzzing. I love the freedom of creative expression and rely on my intuition and mood for what I’ll tackle from one day to the next. 

My painting studio is just a short walk from my home. It’s a beautiful light-filled space that I share with my business bestie, Vana Chupp, also Greek and talented jewelry designer. We’ve named STUΔΙΟ, another nod to our shared Greek heritage. We intentionally designed it to be a space devoted to creativity and connection. In addition to it being the artistic homes of our individual brands, we host pops up, workshops and other community events.

I am also keyholder member at a local clay studio called Clayground, where I hand build ceramics and experience community with other makers.

What advice would you give to other women, especially those with Greek roots, who aspire to follow their own creative or entrepreneurial paths? 

It is never too late to follow your dreams. Keep pouring your energy into the things and activities that light you up. Talk with other women, collaborate with like-minded people, and keep taking chances on opportunities to learn and grow.

Even challenges and obstacles are put in our path for a reason. I’m living proof that sometimes our darkest moments reveal a more beautiful way. 

You have a focus on "home" in your story. How has your concept of home evolved over the years, and how does it inform the work you do today?

My definition of home has definitely expanded over time. Living through a brain injury has taught me to listen to my body and to prioritize my health, taking care of my body as my home. If I’m not well, then nothing else will work. I’m also discovering that home can be several places at once. To me, home is where you feel safe, where you gather with people whom you adore, and where you find equal parts inspiration and belonging. Perhaps that is why I feel so at home in Richmond, in the studio, and in cities like New York City (where my daughters’ live) and Athens…and of course on any island in the Aegean Sea.

What is your favorite place to visit in Greece? Favorite food?

Ahhh, that’s like asking me which child is my favorite! What I love about spending time in Greece is that each city, village and island has its own beauty and character and season.

I just returned from co-hosting the Art of Living Well retreat with my great friend and business partner Katrina Paraskevopoulos of Eyia Retreats, so I have to say that the Peloponnese region is my absolute favorite for the fall season. Plus, my namesake Yia Yia was born in Olympia and my mother was born in Pyrgos Ilias so that area always gives me a firm sense of belonging. There’s something magical about being among the olive orchards close to the time of harvest.

I’m also partial to the rustic, rocky charm of Tinos, the verdant nature and friendly people of Skopelos, and the family vibe and crystal blue waters of Naxos.

Honestly, I’m a Cycladic girl through and through – the allure of the whitewashed architecture and the way the sun plays and the shadows dance gets me every single time. 

What’s on the horizon for 2025?

I’m prepping for gallery art shows for early 2025 in Atlanta, Des Moines, and Chicago. I’m excited to collaborate with more clients on custom and personalized paintings, as well as launching a collection of textiles and wallpaper created from my artwork.

I’m super excited to travel to Therasia next June to co-host our 3rd Art of Living Well retreat. It’s the little sister island across from Santorini with only 200 inhabitants and will be the perfect escape for paradise found.

My darling daughter is getting married in the Athens Riviera (on my birthday!) in July. So many wonderful celebrations to look forward to and new memories to be make in the Motherland. 

Want to learn more? 

Be the first to hear what's happening in Theodora’s studio, learn about upcoming collections and more. Never drab and always uplifting. Join the studio list.

Follow Theodora on Instagram at www.instagram.com/theodoramillerfineart

www.theodoramiller.com