**A Minute with: Michalis Pantelidis, Fashion Textiles Designer**
Nicosia, Cyprus – Michalis Pantelidis, a prominent fashion textiles designer, has made a name for himself by creating exquisite silk scarves that draw inspiration from Cypriot culture. Based in Nicosia, Pantelidis has recently achieved a significant milestone in his career, with his designs now available at the Louvre museum shop, a dream come true for the artist.
Living alone in the capital city, Pantelidis starts his day with a simple yet satisfying breakfast of peanut butter, banana, and honey on bread. This routine reflects his appreciation for the little joys in life, which he believes are essential for a fulfilling day. “My perfect day would begin with this breakfast, followed by listening to Anna Vissi, and then heading to the beach to soak up the sun,” he shares.
His passion for design is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and memories. One of his fondest childhood memories involves helping his grandparents harvest apples and other fruits in his village, Kyperounta. This connection to his heritage plays a significant role in his creative process, as he transforms these memories and cultural imagery into contemporary textile designs.
When it comes to his creative influences, Pantelidis cites the book "Εσύ για Σένα" (Your for You) by Lakis Argyrou as a pivotal read that encouraged him to analyze patterns in his character and behavior. This introspective approach is reflected in his work, where he aims to convey deeper meanings through his designs.
In his leisure time, Pantelidis enjoys listening to music, particularly Anna Vissi's live performances, which he currently has on repeat in his car. He describes his spirit animal as a panther, symbolizing quiet power and intention—qualities he strives to embody in his work. “The panther doesn’t need to be loud to be noticed; it moves with confidence and precision,” he explains.
Among his many accomplishments, Pantelidis expresses pride in having his scarves featured in a prestigious location like the Louvre. This achievement not only highlights his talent but also serves as a testament to the global appeal of his designs.
Reflecting on life lessons, he recalls a memorable scene from the movie "Under the Tuscan Sun," where the idea of building train tracks before the train arrives resonates with him. “It reminds me to trust the process—sometimes you just have to start, and things will follow,” he notes.
If given the chance to spend an evening with anyone, Pantelidis would choose Anna Vissi, whom he admires greatly. He also dreams of time traveling to London in 1986 to witness Freddie Mercury’s iconic performance at Live Aid, a moment he considers one of the most powerful in music history.
Despite his successes, Pantelidis acknowledges his greatest fear: stagnation. He emphasizes the importance of growth, both personally and creatively. “I want to keep evolving,” he states, underscoring his commitment to continuous improvement.
When asked what advice he would give his 18-year-old self, he reflects, “You are enough; you don’t need to prove anything to anyone.” This message of self-acceptance is a guiding principle in his life and work.
Trust is a fundamental value for Pantelidis, and he believes that dishonesty would be a dealbreaker in any relationship. “Lying is something I cannot tolerate; trust is everything for me,” he asserts.
As he continues to innovate and expand his brand, Michalis Pantelidis remains a significant figure in the fashion textiles industry, drawing from his rich cultural heritage and personal experiences to create designs that resonate with people around the world. For those interested in his work, Pantelidis can be followed on social media platforms and his official website, where he shares insights into his creative journey.
For more information, visit [www.michalispantelidis.com](http://www.michalispantelidis.com) or follow him on Instagram at [@michalispantelidistudio](http://www.instagram.com/michalispantelidistudio/).