by Fatma Nur Özoğul and Violeta Ivanova

The Goethe-Institut Nicosia is hosting a speculative art exhibition, Collective Future, by Fatma Nur Özoğul and Violeta Ivanova. Following a series of events organised by the artists, the exhibition has opened in the buffer zone on 23 April, the anniversary of the opening of the first crossing point Ledra Palace.

With their project Collective Future, artists Fatma Nur Özoğul (CY/AT) and Violeta Ivanova (BG/AT) delve into the significance of intangible cultural heritage within our post-modern and globalized world. This participatory project draws upon traditions and customs to address contemporary issues from an alternative perspective. By offering a speculative glimpse into the future of Cypriot society, Collective Future aims to stimulate discussions about regional and global developments.

Inspired by the local coffee-reading tradition, the project invites all communities in Nicosia to come together and share a cup of coffee. Their combined coffee grounds serve as the basis for an unconventional interpretation of the shared future.

The Goethe-Institut Nicosia serves as a gathering point for the project, bringing together the outcomes of all its activities. Video documentation from the event, along with installations and artworks speculating on possible local and global futures, are showcased in this exhibition. The show also includes drawings created by the future of the island – local children. Their contributions were created in the framework of the Collective Future character design workshop, organized by the artists.

Employing ironic language, humour, and playfulness, the show explores the intersections of past and future, as well as the dynamics between individuals, communities, and the environment.

The participatory events in this project were hosted by Home for Cooperation.

Exhibition duration: 24 April – 11 May 2024

Visiting hours: Tuesday-Friday 16:00-19:00, Saturday 11:00-14:00

*The exhibition will be closed to visitors between 1-6 May 2024 due to public holidays.