Profile
ABOUT OUR FAMILY
Naples Art Factory (NAF) is a family-owned and operated showroom by The Papanikolaou Family – a group of artists, designers, and engineers that have resided in Naples for over a decade. With a spectrum of skill sets and talents, The Papanikolaou Family are equipped to create a curated expereince for all to enjoy. At Naples Art Factory, we are your premiere Naples, FL destination for contempoary art by local and regional artists, bespoke gifts, as well as a slew of classes, workshops, and other happenings.
Lovingly referred to as the “shroom,” short for showroom, Naples Art Factory and The Papanikolaou’s invite you into our shroom for fun, freedom, and camaraderie.
Located in the heart of Mercato, NAF services the community through EDUCATION, EVENTS, & EXHIBITS.
Read more about The Papanikolaou Family below.
TAZ – The Mechanical Engineer
Father of three and husband to Galit, Taz Papanikolaou is the fearless leader of The Papanikolaou Family. Backed by decades of experience in the yachting and marine industries, Taz brings his acute knowledge of propulsion, powerplants, and repower services to the area with his company, USA Repower.
GALIT – The Visionary Bling-er
Galit Papanikolaou is an artist and entrepreneur that specializes in creating unique bespoke gifts for your private space or personal use. Galit is the visionary behind Naples Art Factory, bringing her eccentric personality and Mediterranean influences to SWFL to create memorable experiences for all who sit down at one of her beautifully designed tablescapes. Known for bling-ing everything, Galit loves to embellish her products and creations with a layer of glamor.
YONI – The Historian & Archivist
The resident bookworm of the family, Yoni Papanikolaou is lovingly referred to as a “walking encyclopedia” because of his vast knowledge about most topics. Specializing in history and historic preservation, Yoni earned his M.A.P.H in Public History from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) in 2022. His thesis chronicles the history of Fort Myers’ millionaires row, which can be found on his website that serves a living exhibit and document: Southern Fortunes. Join Yoni for an insightful lecture or tutoring session to learn something new.
DANI – The Urban Tribal Artist
Known for his celebrity-like influence around SWFL, Dani Papa is a local artist, educator, and community leader. Originally a high school art teacher, Dani has amassed a level of success and notoriety that mirrors his ambition and drive. Dani calls his style of artistry Urban Tribalism, which is rooted in urban aesthetics but shrouded in tribal patternwork. He earned his M.F.A. in Painting from Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in 2025 while simultaneously develoiping the arts and culture scene of SWFL. Check out Dani Papa’s Greek Myths Series and the rest of his portfolio on his website to learn more about his art or hire him to paint live at your next event.
KARINA – The Sustainable Designer
Karina Papanikolaou is the youngest of The Papanikolaou Family… which means we saved the best for last! As an artist and designer who prides herself on her sustainable efforts and practices, Karina creates wearable art from recyclable materials. These garments serve both form and function all while leaving the viewer looking like a work of art in recylced couture. Both Karina and her brother Dani work together around the SWFL art and fashion circles to create showstopping looks that both inspire and influence. Follow Karina on Instagram as she gears up for her next fashion show.
CLASS OFFERINGS & DESCRIPTION
Our Teaching Style
At Naples Art Factory, we believe in the essence and importance of play – where attendees embrace art-making in a fun manner and with enough encouragement to try new things. Our casual yet professional approach to teaching is a unique style for connecting to our audience and community to create an engaging experience.
Our Pedigree
Yoni and Dani Papanikolaou have been accomplished educators and community leaders in the education industry for a combined 20 years. Both brothers have ammassed accolades for their teaching practices and classroom curriculum. Yoni earned his M.A.P.H. from Southern New Hampshire University in Public History, while Dani recently completed his M.F.A. from Savannah College of Art & Design in Painting.
Our Goals
The goals at Naples Art Factory’s classes and workshops are built to inspire, educate, and enjlight participants to learning a new skill, gaining a new knowledge, and encouraging camaraderie within the community. At Naples Art Factory, we encourage local artists and designers to lead classes that highlight their respective practice while sharing their light with the community.
