Diamond Birthday

About the Book

This book is written and painted by me, Ourania Kalampoka. The inspiration for this book was the celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s diamond birthday on BBC. When I saw it, I said, “Here’s a floating palace that slides in the river on top of a gray silk ribbon. Here’s a modern fairy tale.” I married the reality with the myth—the very much living Queen Elizabeth with the imaginary character of Grandmother Ruth. This is how I always worked with children of ages five to nine. Beyond design, color, perspective with children we created fairy tales, one of which was published.

About the Author

Ourania Kalampoka was born in Volos, Greece, in 1952. She was taught free design and the use of colors at Volos Center of Arts and Culture. Together with other artists, she worked to restore the painting decorations of the Town Conservatory. She worked at the exhibition hall of the Art Center Giorgio De Chirico. At the same time she taught painting to children at the town’s workshops. Her students participated in competitions of children’s art abroad (the Czech Republic, China, Norway, United Kingdom), winning praises and prizes. One of her student’s works is exhibited at London’s Museum of Children’s Art. She participated in many individual and team exhibitions in Greece. Some of her paintings belong to private collections abroad (USA). She took part in the World Day of Museums with her paintings. She has two sons and three grandchildren. She lives and works in Volos, painting and writing fairy tales for children. “Ever since I was a little girl I loved art, especially painting. I was fascinated by the myths of my country, grandmother’s fairy tales. I was also inspired by everyday stories. It helped me in my work with the kids, paint, and write my stories as well. My hometown, Volos, is situated northeast of the capital city, Athens, at the foot of Mountain Pelion. The mountain is well-known as the home of the mythical centaurs. From its port Jason with the Argonauts sailed his boat, Argo, to Colchis to retreat the Golden Fleece.”