Art exhibition in Nicosia sparks political controversy over artist's background

The Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre (NiMAC) is facing significant backlash for including an artwork by Turkish Cypriot artist Emin Cizenel in a group exhibition titled 'A Slight Indisposition'. Critics, including the Ecologists Movement and Nicosia deputy mayor Chrysanthos Fakas, argue that Cizenel's involvement is inappropriate due to his historical role in designing the flag displayed in the northern part of Cyprus. While the exhibition features works from 16 international and Cypriot artists, the controversy led to a protest outside the gallery. Journalist George Tattis reported being physically accosted by an individual accompanying the curator after questioning the center's decision. NiMAC defended the exhibition, asserting institutional independence and artistic freedom, and noted that the artwork in question, 'A Lost Moment', is part of the state’s collection and has been exhibited previously. Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos stated he had no prior knowledge of the exhibition and emphasized that the municipal council does not manage the internal programming of the arts center. The board of NiMAC has scheduled an extraordinary meeting to review the matter in light of the public outcry.