The Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre (Nimac) has defended its decision to include a work by Turkish Cypriot artist Emin Cizenel in a current group exhibition, following public criticism and political reactions.
The art controversy centres on the display of Cizenel’s work A Lost Moment, which forms part of the state’s art collection and has reportedly been exhibited previously without incident.
Nimac stressed that the work was loaned as part of a broader group exhibition featuring 16 Cypriot and international artists.
Institution stresses artistic independence
Amid the art controversy, Nimac reaffirmed its institutional independence, stating that it operates with “complete artistic freedom” and that its exhibitions are not subject to approval by the municipality.
The centre also confirmed that its board would review the issue in an extraordinary meeting following public debate.
Political and public reactions
The controversy escalated after objections were raised by environmental and political groups prior to the exhibition opening, with critics arguing that the inclusion of Cizenel carries political significance due to his role as the designer of the flag used in the north.
Deputy Nicosia Mayor Chrysanthos Fakas said he requested the exhibition be cancelled after learning of the artist’s participation, arguing the matter raised concerns over the use of a taxpayer-funded space.
He added that while he raised concerns, Nimac operates independently and the municipal council does not normally approve exhibition content.
Mayor Charalambos Prountzos also distanced the municipality from the decision, stating he had no prior knowledge of the exhibition and did not attend its opening.
Protest and tensions outside exhibition
The art controversy also led to a small protest outside the exhibition venue, where demonstrators criticised what they described as the “normalisation of occupation through art”.
A journalist reported being confronted while filming during the protest, further escalating tensions around the event.
Artist background and previous work
Cizenel, originally from Limassol, studied in Istanbul and Vienna and has participated in bicommunal cultural initiatives.
He previously served on the Technical Committee on Culture and has been involved in efforts to return artworks across communities in Cyprus.
He has also publicly spoken about cultural identity and the importance of protecting heritage across both communities on the island.
Ongoing debate
The art controversy highlights ongoing sensitivities around art, identity and politics in Cyprus, particularly in relation to institutions operating in divided cultural spaces.
Nimac is expected to review the matter further as public discussion continues.
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