WHITE STONES is no ordinary retail shop selling mass produced Greek souvenirs. It opened in 2022, and specializes in selling artisan products. The artists are resident on Lefkada and another Ionian island, Meganisi.
Situated in Nidri pedestrian high street, it nestles snugly next to de Blanck Wine Shop.
Previously the Nidri Bus Station, the owner Michelle Rofael Kandilas has refurbished it superbly. Now a light, white, welcoming gallery, reaching back to the Nidri quayside beyond.
Michelle is passionate about helping others sell unique items made by creative residents of Lefkada island. She has emotionally invested herself in this unique business, which is very much 'work in progress' as she continues to rise to the challenge of selling beautiful art and crafts at affordable prices.
Its a delight to slowly wander through and browse; the beautiful artisan products are tastefully displayed amongst an eclectic mix of traditional Greek antique items.
Some of the local artists have written statements about themselves and short biographies which are interesting to read. Not all works are originals, some are prints, which appeals to everyone's budget.
Sara Rowan Murray
Ann Edwards
Susie Fox
Lindos Keramik
MALU
Paris Blanche
Anthoula and Argalio
These amazing women are keeping the craft of 'looming' alive.
Living on the island of Meganisi Anthoula and Argalio can be seen sitting outside their homes in the small village of Katomeri weaving linen and wool, which are then made into items for sale.
If you are visiting the island it is fascinating to watch these ladies and others at work on their traditional looms.
Anthoula is now seventy nine years old and has dedicated her life to making fabric since the age of nine, having an eye and passion for design. She sells her wares in a museum in Athens and at White Stones.
Anthoula also has a fishing license to sell fish, so goes fishing in the morning, then works the loom in the afternoons, then goes to feed her chickens. An incredibly hard working woman, an example and inspiration to all.
It may appear to some that these items are expensive, but when you realise the time, skill, and dedicated craftmanship that produces such amazing, unique artisan pieces, on reflection these items are well worth the money and are wonderful to own and display in your home or give as gifts. (Don't be fooled by cheaper imports that can be purchased elsewhere).
Soundias Vassilis
Yiannis
COLLECTIVE
A workshop is based in the central mountain village of Alexandros Lefkada. Items are made using natural fibres and upcycled materials. This social cooperative enterprise has strong ethics for traditional arts and cultural heritage.
https://www.aitarocollective.gr/en/
https://www.facebook.com/aitarocollective/
Lydia Van Fondern
Lydia is a German artist who has lived on the island of Meganisi for 25 years, where she creates and exhibits her artwork at her restaurant called Il Paradiso. She welcomes portrait commissions, and enjoys holding workshops for locals and tourists.
Other artists work.
Michelle is also the agent in Greece and Cyprus for Swarovski so has a wonderful display of jewelry on offer.
Michelle would be delighted to meet any residents on Lefkada (particularly Greek artists) who have a craft, pottery, woodwork etc interested in exhibiting at White Stones.
Join White Stones Nidri on social media for updates on art as it arrives in store.
Open 9am - 12.30am
7 days /week throughout the summer season.
Mobile; 698 279 3524
Instagram and Facebook; White Stones Nidri.
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