ART IN DEMOCRACY

Nicosia 2030 honours Democracy
 
The exhibition "Art in Democracy" was inaugurated by the President of the Republic Mr. Nicos Christodoulides
 
The art exhibition "Art in Democracy", featuring artworks from the European Parliament's Contemporary Art Collection, was inaugurated on on Monday, November 18, 2024, at the Nicosia Municipal Hall (Eleftheria Square) by the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides. At the opening , greetings were delivered by the Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos and the Head of the EP Office in Cyprus, Andreas Kettis. Attendees included the Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, ambassadors from the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Italy, India, Israel, and Cuba, AKEL representative and Member of Parliament Christos Christofides, Nicosia Municipal Councilors, and other distinguished guests.
 
In a record-breaking year for democracy, with over 60 countries and half the world’s population heading to the polls, Nicosia 2030, a candidate for European Capital of Culture, together with the 5th Nicosia International Festival, raises questions about the democratic constitution - whether it is fragile, flexible, or resilient.
 
Through the exhibition, the Artistic Director of the Nicosia International Festival, Giorgos G. Papageorgiou, noted, "We honour a fundamental value of the European Union and celebrate, as a festival and as the Municipality of Nicosia, the 20 years of Cyprus' accession to the European Union". 
 
In his address, the President of the Republic emphasised that the exhibition serves as a unique tool for reflection on the role of democracy, highlighting the fundamental democratic principles and values through the work of contemporary European artists. "Many wonder," he pondered, "what is art without democracy, and what is democracy without art? One without the other would likely be abstract and devoid of meaning. Art flourishes only where there is freedom and respect for diverse voices and approaches, while democracy is safeguarded and strengthened through creative expression, critical thinking, and freedom of speech."
 
From his side, the Mayor of Nicosia. Charalambos Prountzos highlighted that the exhibition marks a milestone in our cultural life and once again demonstrates the city's dynamic role as a hub of culture, dialogue, and mutual understanding within the European Union. He added: "Through the presentation of these works, the visitor is invited to reflect on the meaning of democracy, examine the challenges Europe faces today, and consider our future as European citizens in an ever-changing world.” He noted that Nicosia, as a candidate for European Capital of Culture 2030, takes great pride in being the first city outside the administrative center of the European Union to host this exhibition. It is also a significant step toward establishing our city as a meeting point and a space for reflection on the values of the European Union.
 
In his address, Andreas Kettis, Head of the European Parliament Office in Cyprus, stated that the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to present the European Parliament not only as a political body and co-legislator shaping European law but also as an institution with a strong commitment to contemporary art. “This exhibition,” he said, “serves as an important reminder that art can be a powerful tool for promoting democracy. Art can help people think critically about democratic values and processes, thereby strengthening democracy.”
 
Educational programs
 
Mr. Kettis also underlined the significance of the educational programs surrounding the exhibition. Secondary schools have already visited the exhibition on Monday morning. "The students and young people of Nicosia and Cyprus, who will visit the exhibition, will have the opportunity to study these works and reflect on the values they must preserve, and promote as the citizens of the European Union of tomorrow."
 
The exhibition will remain open until 15 December 2024 and then from 8 to 31 January 2025, Tuesday - Sunday 14:00 - 18:00 p.m.
 
Information: 22797979 (Monday - Friday 10:00-13:00) &
bit.ly/Website_NIF2024
 
Information and reservations for the educational programs: 22797991 (Monday - Friday 10:00 - 13:00)
 
Festival identity
Organizers: Nicosia Municipality, Nicosia For Art
Institutional Sponsor: Ministry of Culture, Republic of Cyprus
Bronze Sponsor: Onassis Stegi
Communication Sponsors: ALPHA CYPRUS, LOVE Radio