Art lovers are invited to the first Nicosia Biennale, organized by Arkhe, the Nicosia Turkish Municipality (LTB), and the Vedat Kaner Foundation.
The event, themed “Compassion”, will take place from 7 November to 6 December and aims to showcase local and international talent. Applications are open until 1 August 2025, with artists from Cyprus, Türkiye, Italy, France, Brazil, and Lebanon having already expressed their interest.
The organizers of the biennial, including Arkhe director Halil Duranay and coordinator İlkem Tunar, stressed the importance of the event in enriching Nicosia’s cultural identity. Duranay pointed out that this is the first major contemporary art initiative in the city and emphasized the importance of participation. Tunar emphasizes the Biennale’s role in promoting local engagement and revitalizing spaces within the historic city walls.
The Biennale is expected to boost the city’s economy and increase its global recognition. The exhibitions will be held at important venues, including the Lefkoşa Atatürk Cultural Centre, İsmet Vehit Güney Exhibition Hall, and Bedesten, as well as iconic locations such as Arasta and Bandabulya.
The selection committee will curate the final program, and the organizers aim to collaborate with local producers to enhance the event’s reach.
