INTERVIEW KEEPING CYPRUS’ CRAFT HERITAGE ALIVE The Head of Cyprus Handicraft Service, Ms Maria Anaxagora, presents its renewed direction, highlighting both current initiatives and future vision! past, particularly for women. Today, they constitute art forms with aesthetic and cultural value. Contemporary artists utilise these practices, reinterpreting and integrating them into new creative directions. Q. What steps are you taking to ensure that Cypriot craftsmanship is passed down through the generations? A: Local handicraft techniques, which are recorded on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Cyprus and by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), are in danger of becoming extinct. The Service has undertaken initiatives in the form of educational programmes to pass on the traditional expertise of experienced craftspeople to young people. Similarly, we collaborate with the University of Cyprus to develop educational programmes aiming to provide vocational training for young people. We also promote research and innovation by participating in European programmes. Our mission is to build a business ecosystem around each handicraft sector, in order to develop small and medium-sized enterprises, generate local employment opportunities and strengthen social cohesion. Q. How do you promote Cypriot craftsmanship on an international scale? A: Through dynamic collaboration with international organisations and bodies such as the European Craft Alliance, the Q. When was the Cyprus Handicraft Service (CHS) established and what is its role? A: The CHS was established in 1975, prioritising the documentation, safeguarding, and preservation of the diverse traditional branches and techniques of Cypriot handicrafts. Its main goal has always been to develop competitiveness, improve entrepreneurship and promote the economic development of each sector. Preserving cultural heritage is crucial, as is education, which ensures that knowledge and traditions are passed on to future generations. Q. What is your focus today, and how does CHS remain up to date in addressing contemporary creation? A: The rich traditions of embroidery, weaving, ceramics, metalwork and basketry, among others, constitute a dynamic legacy of creativity, innovation and adaptation. While maintaining the characteristics of the Cypriot cultural identity, creators seek to be competitive both locally and internationally by combining traditional and modern elements, as well as local and international influences. Q. How are traditional techniques expressed today? A: Traditional techniques were an integral part of daily life in the The products shown are available at the Cyprus Handicraft Service shops Photos: Courtesy of the Cyprus Handicraft Service
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