Do I belong here?
Source: Cyprus Mail
A new initiative aims to build a creative community in Cyprus and give women in the arts more voice
“Do I belong here? Is a writer, part-time photographer and cyanotype maker just as much an artist as a ceramicist or a printmaker is?
These thoughts crept up on me as I stepped into Aigaia School of Art & Design to attend the first meeting of the Empowering Women in the Arts initiative, which launched in January. I was handed a form to fill in, a badge with my name on it (so I must belong, right?) and asked to pick a coloured ribbon from a pile. Still, I wasn’t sure what to expect or who else would be there.
In the courtyard, women gathered in conversation, surrounded by student artwork and classrooms. Aigaia, always a vibrant space, had taken on a new energy – a collective sense of curiosity and anticipation. This was more than a networking event; it was the beginning of a platform for women artists in Cyprus.
“We launched the initiative to build a strong network of women who can come together, support each other, and collaborate on meaningful concepts and issues,” the school’s director Alexia Eliadou Hadjistefanou said later. “Our goal is to create a space where female artists can connect, share experiences and develop collaborative work in a supportive and inspiring environment.”
Over 20 women had gathered – Greek and English speakers from across the island – representing different creative fields. Some were full-time artists, others pursued art alongside different careers, and a few worked in the management and business side of the arts.
We split into smaller groups to discuss our artistic practices, challenges and needs. As the conversation unfolded, so did my self-doubt. Could I take up space in a room full of artists?
I wasn’t the only one grappling with these thoughts. Imposter syndrome is common, particularly among women in the arts, where opportunities for funding, exhibitions and leadership roles often seem out of reach. The discussions revealed shared struggles: lack of visibility, limited state support and the constant search for professional opportunities.
The first networking event focused on listening. “A key takeaway for me,” Alexia reflected, “was the openness everyone brought to the space. Stories, challenges and aspirations flowed effortlessly. It reinforced the power of community, and how vital it is to be seen, heard and supported. More than networking, it felt like finding a creative home.”
Cyprus’ small market makes collaboration and knowledge-sharing crucial, yet many women feel disconnected from these essential resources.
Abroad, similar initiatives exist as well and have recently gained more importance due to shifts in gender dynamics. Women still need to make more noise to be heard, taken seriously or equally represented. As with many other professional fields, there is still a need for empowerment and development.
“While progress has been made, women in the arts worldwide still struggle to achieve the same level of visibility and recognition as their counterparts. There remains a significant need for more platforms that showcase female artists, as well as initiatives that foster leadership and encourage women to take on influential roles,” Alexia said.
One factor she has noticed is confidence, or rather the lack of it. Women need to assert themselves in the industry, ask, demand. Her words resonate – my own hesitation about ‘taking up space’ at the event feels unnecessary.
“Success stories and relatable role models, especially those from similar cultural backgrounds, can motivate aspiring female artists and demonstrate that success is possible within the local market. In a close-knit society like Cyprus, visibility is key to fostering confidence and shaping the future of women in the arts.”
Empowering Women in the Arts is more than just an initiative. It is a research project to uncover issues in the arts, and identify and tackle any gaps. At a time when the bill for artist registry and sponsorships is under scrutiny by artists and with International Women’s Day just passed, the need for women artists to unify seems all the more vital.
The next event will take place on May 10 but for professional artists only. Yet what makes that distinction can be as blurry as the artist registry.
From September onwards, the initiative aspires to be a platform for the exchange of ideas, project development, educational programmes, workshops and mentoring. While the structure is still taking shape, the mission is clear: to and support creative women in Cyprus.
“Change may take time,” Alexia said, “but with continuous advocacy and commitment, the landscape of the arts will become one where talent, creativity and vision shine, regardless of gender.”
As I walk out of Aigaia School of Art & Design, the orange ribbon I picked at the start of the event flutters in the wind. I don’t know yet what this initiative will bring but the dozens of women there tell me it is needed. I no longer wonder if I deserve a seat at their table – or art studio – I simply pull up a chair. And all women should feel they can do the same.
To register for the next session of Empowering Women in the Arts on May 10 from 4pm to 7pm, fill the form at aigaia.com.cy
The original article: belongs to Cyprus Mail .
