As part of the commemorations marking the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion, the University of Cyprus will host a powerful exhibition this September. Titled “Fifty Years of Occupation, 1974-2024”, this poignant display will feature the work of 54 Greek Cypriot and Greek artists, with over 200 pieces of art vividly portraying the tragic events that unfolded in 1974.
Exhibition Opening and Significance
The exhibition, located in the Anastasios G. Leventis Council-Senate Building at the University of Cyprus, will be inaugurated on Monday by President Nikos Christodoulides. Running until September 23, the showcase offers a comprehensive look at the lingering effects of the invasion, bringing together cartoons, caricatures, and sketches that document the impact of this critical moment in Cypriot history.
A Journey Through Time: Cartoons and Sketches
The collection includes works from both established and emerging artists, ranging from cartoonists who were active during the 1974 coup and invasion to those who began their creative journeys afterward. Through their unique artistic styles, these artists have captured various dimensions of Cyprus’ suffering, including betrayal, the ongoing occupation, missing persons, family grief, and political struggles.
A Powerful Reflection of Cyprus’ Struggle
Some pieces were created specifically for this exhibition, while others have appeared in publications over the years. Each work explores the deep scars left on the island, depicting not only the emotional and political turmoil but also the enduring hope for resolution. The exhibition acts as a somber reminder of the pain Cyprus has experienced since 1974, from division and international negotiations to the unresolved plight of missing persons.
Event Information
Fifty Years of Occupation, 1974-2024
Exhibition featuring 54 Greek Cypriot and Greek artists and more than 200 caricature and sketch works
September 16-23
Anastasios G. Leventis Council-Senate Building, University of Cyprus, Nicosia
Tel: 22-894347/44
This unique exhibition serves as a powerful artistic tribute to a defining chapter in Cyprus’ history, offering a space for reflection and a visual journey through five decades of occupation.