Haverj ("Eternal"), digital illustration, 2023. As part of the REVIVE Fashion and Art Exhibition, 25th-28th May, 2023. 

Exhibition Feature - REVIVE

The REVIVE Exhibition showcased a number of different Cypriot fashion designers and artists from across the island and diaspora. Presented by Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus, the event was a huge success for uniting artists across the divide and presenting Cypriot fashion heritage in a sustainable and modern setting. 

Textiles and their design traditions are important aspects of Cypriot cultural identity. Like other details of Cypriot culture, textiles and their influences are constantly changing, while some elements remain static. 

Haverj is an Armenian name meaning “eternal,” and reflects a connection between past and present. This piece combines what we love from the past and how we apply it to the present. Haverj includes textile designs inspired by Cypriot heritage, such as fythkiotika and cosinoplouma. Fythkiotika, also known as phytiko, is one of the most important weaving traditions to come from Cyprus. The colours used in these embroideries include red, blue, orange, yellow, and green. The patterns often reflect everyday life through geometric designs. Cosinoplouma is a silk embroidery design featuring natural motifs, such as animals and flora. Combining contemporary fashion design with phytiko and cosinoplouma designs symbolizes how Cypriot art evolves to honour the past and create new opportunities for sharing cultural heritage.