Connecting Arts 2: A Networking Event for the Arts in Cyprus

Overview

Connecting Arts 2 built on the success of the original Connecting Arts event held in June 2023. The initiative brought together Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot artists, alongside art professionals such as writers, critics, historians and curators, to foster dialogue, collaboration and the development of new project ideas across the island.


Objectives

  • Deepen connections and expand the network of artists and arts professionals from both communities.
  • Develop detailed proposals for future cultural projects to be submitted to the Technical Committee on Culture (TCC).
  • Celebrate artistic diversity and cooperation through a vibrant, inclusive event.

 

Result

On May 25, 2024, the Technical Committee on Culture hosted Connecting Arts 2, a follow-up networking event held in the buffer zone. Building on the success of the first Connecting Arts event in June 2023, this gathering brought together approximately 60 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot artists, along with art writers, critics, curators, and other cultural professionals, to further strengthen and expand the connections established previously.

The event began with opening remarks from the Turkish Cypriot Co-Chair of the Technical Committee on Culture, Ms. Ferdiye Ersoy, and Greek Cypriot Committee member Ms. Ellada Evangelou, setting the stage for insightful discussions. Participants engaged in focused conversations on Performing Arts, Fine Arts, Music, Cinema, Folk Art and Literature, with each thematic group led by facilitators. These discussions not only encouraged artistic exchange but also sparked fresh ideas for future collaborative projects.

The event fostered meaningful dialogue and connections among participants, deepening their understanding of the rich and diverse artistic landscape on the island of  Cyprus. Connecting Arts 2 concluded with a vibrant closing ceremony, featuring a lively performance by Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot bands, adding a celebratory tone that enhanced the overall networking experience.

During the event, participants actively contributed ideas and suggestions, resulting in a series of project proposals across the thematic areas. These proposals reflected the collaborative spirit of the event and were submitted for consideration to the Technical Committee on Culture.

Find more photos from the event here.

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