Celebrating Tradition Through Creativity
BE OPEN Foundation is excited to announce the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition, an inspiring initiative designed to foster creativity among young artisans, artists, and designers. This international competition is organized in collaboration with the Cyprus Handicraft Service of the Deputy Ministry of Culture and the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID).
Embracing Cultural Heritage
The 2025 edition of the competition focuses on Cyprus's rich traditions of weaving and embroidery. It aims to preserve these cultural heritages while encouraging contemporary creative expressions. The goal is to inspire emerging talents to reinterpret centuries-old crafts in ways that resonate with today's audience.
Who Can Participate?
This competition invites designers, artisans, and fine artists aged 18 to 30 who are based in Cyprus and proficient in traditional techniques. Entrants have until the deadline to submit their projects for consideration, with a focus on innovative designs that pay homage to the island's heritage.
Selection and Awards
The process of choosing the shortlisted submissions is set to take place in November, where an esteemed international jury will evaluate the entries. This jury, composed of experts in traditional crafts and representatives from global creative sectors, will select the three winning projects announced at the end of December.
Winners will not only receive recognition but will also be awarded fully-sponsored internships and workshops, provided by BE OPEN and SBID, offering an incredible opportunity for professional development and growth.
Supporting the Next Generation
As a humanitarian initiative, the BE OPEN Foundation is committed to furthering the preservation of Cypriot heritage. Founder Elena Baturina expresses her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "It is a joy and honour to explore the incredibly profound context of Cyprus's artisanal history through the eyes of younger artists and makers." This sentiment reflects the foundation's mission to empower young creatives to connect the historical roots of Cyprus with modern contexts, bridging the past and future.
Engagement Through Education
BE OPEN is dedicated to engaging the youth of Cyprus in educational and artistic endeavors. The foundation previously showcased its commitment by organizing an art exhibition as part of its Regional Art program, alongside masterclasses for schoolchildren focused on craft-related entrepreneurship. Such initiatives ensure that the younger generation is not only preserving cultural traditions but also learning essential skills for creative business practices.
About BE OPEN Foundation
BE OPEN is a sociocultural foundation established by the international philanthropist Elena Baturina. Its mission revolves around harnessing the creativity of younger generations through various artistic and educational projects. With initiatives like the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition, BE OPEN continues to nurture and celebrate the incredible talent of youth while cherishing the cultural narratives of their heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cyprus Future Heritage Competition?
The competition aims to encourage young artisans to celebrate and reinterpret Cyprus's weaving and embroidery traditions.
Who can enter the competition?
Designers and artists aged 18 to 30 based in Cyprus with knowledge of traditional techniques are eligible to enter.
What are the prizes for winners?
Winners will receive fully-funded internships and workshops organized by BE OPEN and SBID.
When will the winners be announced?
The three winning entries will be announced at the end of December.
Who organizes this competition?
The competition is organized by the BE OPEN Foundation in collaboration with the Cyprus Handicraft Service and SBID.
