This week, the Agios Ioannis area of Larnaca will host a vibrant cultural festival, spotlighting the rich art, creativity, and historical significance of the neighborhood. Scheduled for Friday and Saturday, the event is part of the Larnaka 2030 initiative and continues the legacy of ‘mahaLart,’ a program aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods that have traditionally been at the periphery of the city’s artistic scene. The core goal of this initiative is to encourage collaborative creation and uphold the idea of cultural democracy, viewing art as a public good that belongs to everyone.
Festival Curator and Local Artist
The two-day festival has been curated by Antonis Tziarrides, a local visual artist with deep roots in Agios Ioannis. Tziarrides, who grew up in the area, remains artistically and professionally active within its streets. His family home, art workshop, and shop are all based in the neighborhood, making his connection to the festival and its purpose especially personal.
Mantomahallas and Cultural Heritage
A key focus of the festival is celebrating the importance of Mantomahallas, a term reflecting the hospitality, kindness, and humanity that defines the people of Agios Ioannis. Inspired by this, the concept of Mantomahallart emerged, inviting residents to open their doors and participate in the festivities, much like they did in times past. This artistic gathering recalls the old neighborhood spirit and the close-knit community that once thrived there.
Art, Music, and Local Engagement
The festival will feature a diverse array of events, ranging from art exhibitions, open studios, and graffiti to music performances, a street party, a walking tour, theatrical performances, and street food. One of the highlights is an exhibition of old photos and videos, narrated by the residents of the area, offering a window into the neighborhood’s rich past.
Notable artists such as Ioanna Kasiki, Panayiotis Doukanaris, Evdokia Georgiou, and Tziarrides will showcase their work at the festival. Additionally, two sculptures by Costas Argyrou will be on display, with an exhibition curated by Theocharis Karagiannis. Street artist Twenty Three will also be creating graffiti in the area under the theme Alasia Serene.
Open Studios and Performances
On both festival days, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, several local artist workshops will open their doors to visitors, including those of Vassos Demetriou, Katerina Stavrou, Ariana Zakou, Stella Issa, Spyros Agathou, and Tziarrides.
A special walking theatrical performance titled The Road is Mine will take place on Friday, featuring Loukia Mousoulioti and written by Marina Vronti. Performances will be held at 7:30 PM and 8 PM.
Musical Lineup
No festival is complete without music, and this one is no exception. On Friday evening, DJs Barlic Gutter will perform, followed by a live set from Yaraman featuring Irene Pelagia. Saturday will feature performances by Dr. Cordoba and DJ Astrochimp. Additionally, a guided walking tour led by Dr. Iosif Hadjikyriakos will take place on Saturday, revealing the untold stories of the past within the neighborhood.
Mantomahallart Festival Details
The two-day Mantomahallart festival will include a wide range of cultural activities, from guided walks and music performances to studio visits and exhibitions. The event will be held from October 11-12 in the Agios Ioannis neighborhood of Larnaca. For more information, visit their official Facebook page at Larnaka 2030.
This cultural celebration is a unique opportunity to reconnect with Larnaca’s artistic roots, embrace its human history, and foster a sense of community through artistic expression.
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