BE OPEN Foundation Launches Cyprus Future Heritage Competition for Young Creatives

Celebrating Tradition and Creativity in Cyprus

The BE OPEN Foundation is proud to announce the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition, an international initiative aimed at fostering creativity among young artisans, artists, and designers. Collaborating with the Cyprus Handicraft Service of the Deputy Ministry of Culture and the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID), this competition seeks to honor and revive the rich traditions of weaving and embroidery that are integral to Cypriot culture.

Focus on Cultural Heritage

The 2025 edition of the competition is specifically dedicated to honoring Cyprus' artistic heritage, which has been a beacon of creativity and craftsmanship throughout the ages. By encouraging contemporary interpretations of traditional crafts, the BE OPEN Foundation aims to preserve cultural heritage while inspiring innovative artistic expressions.

Eligible participants include designers, craftsmen, visual artists, and producers of traditional techniques aged between 18 to 30, residing in Cyprus. These young creatives are called to submit their works by October 31, 2025, with the hope of receiving recognition for their unique contributions.

Selection Process and Awards

In November, a shortlist of entrants will be selected based on several criteria, including the relevance of their submissions to the island's cultural heritage and their overall creative potential. Ultimately, three winners will be chosen by an esteemed international jury composed of experts in traditional Cypriot crafts and representatives from the global creative industry. The winners will be announced in late December 2025.

The three triumphant participants will be awarded fully funded international internships and workshops organized by BE OPEN and SBID, allowing them to expand their skills and experience in the larger design community.

A Message from BE OPEN

Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "It is both a joy and an honor to explore the incredibly rich context of Cypriot craftsmanship through the eyes of young artists and makers. We are eager to see how these creative minds interpret and transform centuries-old traditions into objects and decor relevant to contemporary society, thus bridging the past and future in their own unique formats."

This competition is a continuation of BE OPEN's commitment to engaging Cypriot youth in educational and artistic projects. Previously, the foundation organized an art exhibition as part of its Regional Art program and has hosted various events and workshops focusing on entrepreneurial craftsmanship for schoolchildren.

The Vision of BE OPEN

Founded by international philanthropist Elena Baturina, BE OPEN is a sociocultural foundation dedicated to unlocking the creative potential of younger generations through artistic and educational initiatives. By supporting projects like the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition, BE OPEN strives to amplify the voices of young creators and enhance appreciation for Cypriot craftsmanship and culture. Through these efforts, the foundation hopes to inspire a greater understanding and respect for the artistic traditions that have shaped Cyprus over centuries.

With the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition, BE OPEN becomes a vital platform for young talents in Cyprus, enabling them to showcase their works while also preserving the island's rich cultural narrative. This initiative not only celebrates the past but also nurtures the future of Cypriot artistry and creativity.