Cypriot Heritage Celebrated with a Mesmerizing Fashion Show in Nicosia

A Celebration of Cypriot Heritage Through Fashion

On October 18th, a historic street in Nicosia transformed into a vibrant stage for an open-air fashion show titled "Here Come the Cypriots." This immersive event was a collaborative effort between the BE OPEN Foundation and the Centre for Visual Arts and Research (CVAR), creating a unique platform to explore and celebrate the rich and ever-evolving identity of Cyprus through the lens of fashion.

The event presented a diverse array of clothing that spanned various epochs of Cypriot history—ranging from the Ottoman period through British colonial times to modern-day fashion. Local school students were instrumental in bringing these historical garments to life, showcasing centuries of fashion in a manner that engaged contemporary spectators. Their performances not only highlighted the artistry of the attire but also served as a reminder of the deep cultural roots that run through the island.

Rita C. Severis, the director of CVAR, emphasized the multicultural nature of Cyprus, noting that the island is a tapestry of societies, histories, and events that have influenced its people and their daily lives, including culinary traditions, language, and fashion. "Through our collaboration with BE OPEN, we celebrate how these historical narratives have woven into our contemporary identity, hoping that the experience will deepen understanding and revive cherished memories," Severis remarked.

Elena Baturina, the founder of BE OPEN, commended Cyprus’s rich artistic and craft heritage, which inspired this cultural endeavor. "Participating in this exciting journey into fashion with CVAR was a true pleasure. As an international initiative, BE OPEN is proud to support meaningful cultural expressions and historical celebrations like this, which contribute to nurturing the creative community in Cyprus as well as preserving the unique elements that define this beautiful island, making it a one-of-a-kind destination," stated Baturina.

During the fashion show, the permanent secretary of the Cypriot Ministry of Culture, Emmanuella Lambrianidou, also expressed gratitude towards CVAR and BE OPEN for their exceptional work. She acknowledged that no state cultural policy can flourish without active participation from civil society, thus underlining the importance of such collaborative efforts in fostering a vibrant cultural scene.

In addition to the fashion showcase, BE OPEN is also organizing a competition titled "Cyprus Future Heritage" in collaboration with the Cypriot Crafts Service under the Deputy Ministry of Culture. This competition encourages young artisans, artists, and designers to reimagine traditional Cypriot weaving and embroidery techniques. Three winners of the contest will receive fully funded internships abroad, along with workshops organized by BE OPEN, further emphasizing the initiative's commitment to mentoring and promoting emerging cypriot talents.

This celebration not only highlights the rich tapestry of Cypriot heritage but also instills hope for the future, allowing new voices and perspectives to resonate in the rich historical narrative of the island.

Through initiatives like this, Cyprus is poised to cultivate a dynamic intersection of past and present, ensuring that its cultural heritage is not just preserved but continually reinvigorated, appealing to both residents and visitors alike. The fusion of historical reflection with contemporary expression encapsulates the essence of Cypriot identity, creating a vivid tapestry that narrates the ongoing story of the island through fashion and art.