**NICOSIA** – As the International Nicosia Festival draws to a close, a compelling new photography exhibition, "Peras," offers an intimate glimpse into the often-unseen emotional landscapes of the artists who have graced its stages. Curated by visual artist and photographer Nikolas Louka, the exhibition, presented as part of the festival's concluding events, delves into the poignant moments immediately preceding and following each performance, charting the profound personal transitions that define the artistic experience.
The International Nicosia Festival, a cornerstone of the city's cultural calendar, will officially conclude on Friday, January 9th, with a ceremony commencing at 20:00 at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre. It is within this very venue, however, that the exhibition "Peras" will be unveiled, transforming the theatre's diverse spaces into a canvas for Louka's evocative work. From the bustling entrance and foyer to the hallowed stage, the secretive backstage areas, the winding corridors, and the personal sanctuaries of the dressing rooms, the photographs are strategically placed, inviting audiences to traverse the same physical and psychological terrain as the festival's performers.
Louka’s project meticulously documents individual artists in the liminal spaces between anticipation and aftermath. The "before" photographs are charged with the palpable tension of impending performance, capturing the artists in states of intense focus, quiet contemplation, or the execution of private pre-show rituals. These images serve as visual preludes, hinting at the mental fortitude and emotional preparation required to step into the spotlight. Conversely, the "after" shots offer a resonant counterpoint, revealing the immediate consequences of artistic exertion. Here, one witnesses the raw aftermath: the lingering exhilaration of a successful performance, the profound weariness of creative expenditure, the unvarnished expressions of joy, relief, and sometimes, the quiet introspection that follows emotional release.
The exhibition’s title, "Peras," is central to its conceptual framework. It signifies a crossing, a boundary, and the ephemeral yet crucial interval that marks both an ending and a genesis. Louka employs this concept to explore the collective narrative of the festival's conclusion, while simultaneously honouring the individual narrative arc of each artist's journey through their performance. By situating the exhibition throughout the theatre, visitors are encouraged to engage with the artwork in its original context, fostering a deeper understanding of the artists' lived experiences within the festival environment.
This exhibition represents a significant homecoming for Nikolas Louka, whose artistic endeavours have previously been recognised on international platforms and featured in prominent global publications. His return to Cyprus to present "Peras" underscores the exhibition's local resonance and its ambition to highlight the rich talent within the Cypriot arts scene. The impact of "Peras" is expected to extend beyond mere visual appreciation, offering a unique lens through which the intensity and emotional complexity of the festival can be truly comprehended. It promises to provide audiences with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the human element at the heart of artistic creation, revealing the profound, transient moments that forge the indelible spirit of a festival. Following the closing ceremony and exhibition opening, the festivities will continue with a closing party, featuring a DJ set, commencing after 22:00.