The upcoming exhibition titled Moikanes (Mohicans) will showcase wild pre-army hairstyles, highlighting a unique tradition among teenage boys in Famagusta villages.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- The upcoming exhibition titled Moikanes (Mohicans) will showcase wild pre-army hairstyles, highlighting a unique tradition among teenage boys in Famagusta villages.
Wild pre-army: Artistic Exploration of a Cultural Rite
Taking place on July 3 at Serena Beach in Protaras, the exhibition is curated by Cypriot visual artist Nikolas Louka. This one-day event will focus on the elaborate mohawk hairstyles crafted by young men from the Kokkinochoria region, who prepare to enter compulsory military service in the National Guard.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
A Symbolic Transition
This artistic display delves into the mohawk hairstyle as both a visual symbol and a significant social ritual. Louka describes this practice as a “moment of transition”, capturing the phase between “rebellious adolescence and military service”.
The Creative Process
Participants engage in a months-long commitment to grow their hair, culminating in a collective gathering where they shape and dye their hairstyles. This process can take anywhere from six to eight hours, often taking place in makeshift shacks or temporary spaces specifically set up for the occasion. Friends join forces, using improvised materials such as glue, reeds, and string to create their unique looks.
A Tradition Passed Through Generations
The tradition of styling these elaborate hairstyles is believed to have originated in the 1980s and has been passed down through generations of young men preparing for military service. It serves not only as a rite of passage but also as a way for these young men to express their individuality before conforming to military norms.
Capturing Transience
The exhibition documents these hairstyles as “ephemeral sculptures on the body”, designed to attract attention and be photographed before they are ultimately shaved off at the beginning of service. Louka’s work seeks to preserve this fleeting moment, allowing an appreciation of creativity and youth before the transformation that military life brings.
A Celebration of Youth and Community
Open from midday until midnight, the exhibition will conclude with a celebratory party at the venue, allowing participants and visitors to come together and reflect on this cultural phenomenon. The event promises to be a vibrant mix of art and community, emphasising the importance of shared experiences during this significant life change.
About the Artist
Nikolas Louka studied photography in Athens before relocating to London in 2011, where he established E2 Studios and collaborated with well-known international brands and publications, including British Vogue, Prada, and Sony. Since returning to Cyprus in 2024, he has been dedicated to developing various artistic projects both locally and internationally.
Significance of the Exhibition
The Moikanes exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural practices that shape young men’s identities in Cyprus. By showcasing these wild pre-army hairstyles, Louka not only preserves a unique tradition but also invites audiences to reflect on the broader implications of military service and the transition into adulthood.
