Ayia Napa will showcase its rich ceramic heritage during the inaugural Days of Ceramic Art and Clay event this September. Organised by the municipality alongside the Association of Potters-Ceramists and the Aroma Association – Friends of the Ayia Napa Sculpture Park, this festival promises to immerse attendees in the world of ceramics.
- For families, special clay workshops will be available for both children and adults. These hands-on experiences are designed to foster creativity and deepen appreciation for the craft of pottery.
Dates and Location of the Festival
Running from September 19 to 21, the celebration will take place in Ayia Napa’s central square, with various activities designed to highlight both traditional and contemporary expressions in clay. This three-day event aims to engage the public through exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and technique demonstrations that are both educational and entertaining.
Opening Ceremony and Key Events
The official opening will be marked by a Ceramic Art Exhibition at the Giorgos Seferis Cultural Centre on September 19 at 6pm. This exhibition will set the stage for a series of events that will delve deeper into the significance of ceramics in Cypriot culture.
On the following Saturday, the Ayia Napa Municipal Museum Thalassa will host a screening of Paschalis Papapetrou’s documentary, Cypriot Medieval Glazed Pottery, at 11am. This film will be complemented by a lecture from Dr Dimitra Papanikola-Bakirtzi, focusing on the ancient technique of incising in Byzantine glazed pottery.
Interactive Workshops and Demonstrations
Back in the central square, festival-goers can participate in interactive workshops that cater to all skill levels. These workshops will cover a variety of techniques, including pottery wheel techniques, live sculpting, and the Raku firing technique, allowing visitors to experience the art of ceramics first-hand.
For families, special clay workshops will be available for both children and adults. These hands-on experiences are designed to foster creativity and deepen appreciation for the craft of pottery.
Highlighting Ceramics as Art and Craft
Beyond the artistic demonstrations, the event aims to shed light on ceramics as both a utilitarian craft and a fine art form. By bringing together traditional craftspeople and modern ceramicists, the festival seeks to showcase the evolution of ceramics in Cyprus today.
Handmade Ceramics Market
Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase unique ceramic works from the Handmade Ceramics Market, which will run throughout the event. This market will feature local artisans, providing attendees a chance to take home exquisite handcrafted pieces that embody the island’s artistic spirit.
A Celebration of Culture and Tradition
“We highlight our rich cultural heritage and give both residents and visitors the chance to engage directly in an art that connects past and present. Ayia Napa once again proves that it is a centre of culture, creativity and tradition,” stated Ayia Napa mayor Christos Zannetou.
The Days of Ceramic Art and Clay event not only aims to celebrate the beauty of ceramics but also to foster a community spirit through art. With free entrance to all activities, it’s an invitation for everyone to explore the artistic possibilities of clay.
Plan Your Visit
For those interested in attending, the event takes place from September 19 to 21 in the central square of Ayia Napa. More details can be found on the official website at www.agianapa.org.cy. This is a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Cyprus through its ceramic art.
