The rise of Vima Art Fair is a game-changer for Cyprus’ artistic landscape, showcasing the island’s unique cultural blend and fostering connection between local artists and international creatives.
VIMA Art Fair and the Quiet Politics of a Nascent Regional Scene
A Platform for Layered Cultural Exchange in Cyprus
The days of the art world having a ‘slow season’ are over. Amidst a never-ending parade of fairs, gallery weekends, openings, and festivals, enthusiasts and professionals alike can find themselves unmoored. However, amidst this chaos, there is a growing need to recognize the complexities of regional art scenes.
Cyprus as a Multicultural Node
Cyprus has become a melting pot for various identities and cultures. Russians, Lebanese, Israelis, digital nomads, and others have flocked to the island, each bringing their unique experiences and perspectives. The trio behind VIMA Art Fair, Edgar Gadzhiev, Lara Kotreleva, and Nadezhda Zinovskaya, are Russian but have made their homes in Cyprus and are actively engaged with the local art ecosystem.
Cyprus is an island country located in the Eastern Mediterranean, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.
The island has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation from around 10,000 BC.
Strategically positioned near major shipping lanes, Cyprus has been a prized possession for various civilizations, including the Romans, 'They were a powerful force in the region' , the Byzantines, and the Ottomans.
Today, the country is a member of the European Union and a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture.
The fair features a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations.
With a focus on supporting emerging talent, Vima Art Fair has become a premier event in the art world, attracting visitors from over 50 countries.
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The founders worked closely with a team of local experts to build VIMA, which positions Cyprus as a place of confluence of identities and a multicultural node. However, they are cautious about calling the fair political, instead focusing on providing a safe space for art. The wine warehouse venue was part of their vision, showcasing post-industrial buildings in a new light.
Quality Works and Context
VIMA featured quality works from both local and international artists. Cypriot artist Giorgos Gerontides discussed the importance of context in a region where previous art fairs didn’t have a cohesive program. The fair provided a platform for layered cultural exchange, with exhibitions and performances that went beyond mere sales.
Building a Cultural Ecosystem
The VIMA Art Fair has the potential to put Cyprus on the map again. Maria Stathi from Art Seen emphasized the diversity of the fair’s audience, which included local collectors and those from abroad. Nika Gallery, operating between Dubai and Paris, presented Arab and Russian artists whose work focused on migration.
Socio-Political Questions
The fair tackled socio-political questions in panels led by curator and writer ‘Nadine Khalil‘ and a lecture by artist collective Slavs and Tatars. The exhibition ‘The Posterity of the Sun‘ curated by Ludovic Delalande also explored temporality, fragility, and materiality.
A Platform for Connection
Every art fair is commercial, but VIMA went beyond mere commerce. The fair provided a platform for connection between galleries and artists, addressing the need for a cohesive program in a region with a complex cultural landscape. By embracing its nature and architecture, VIMA created a unique dialogue between Cypriot artists and those from abroad.
Closing Remarks
For the founders of VIMA Art Fair, it’s about building a cultural ecosystem that goes beyond mere sales or commerce. As ‘Nadezhda Zinovskaya‘ concluded, ‘We are already planning the next edition.‘ The fair has echoed the vision of its sponsors, who see the potential for Cyprus to become a hub for art and culture in the region.
