Art is part of our cultural wealth, both in the past and the future. It remains, even under otherwise unfavorable conditions, a cohesive agent of collective identity. At the same time, Art is transcendent, overcoming political, social, economic and physical barriers.
Even the devastating consequences of violent conflicts.
The aim of this website is to collect information about all artworks lost in Cyprus in the days of destruction. The ones left behind in the occupied areas constitute, of course, the biggest part. This is an attempt to include and salvage available evidence and testimonies. Reinforcing the hope that the artworks can be located and returned. Similar to the case of over 200 paintings held in the occupied areas, for which the Bi-communal Technical Committee on Culture was mandated in February 2019, within the framework of agreed confidence-building measures, to facilitate their return to their legitimate owners.
A mosaic of testimonies creating the big picture. The big picture of all of us. One that no destruction should be allowed to spoil.
A testimony comprises any information that can help in recording the lost artworks in order for them to be identified and returned to their legitimate owners. To this purpose, a 5-part questionnaire has been compiled, requesting information on each artwork and its owner. Additionally, it is possible to reinforce this information with supportive testimonies, where available, as well as with documents or photographs that can help in their confirmation.