festive moments — Festive moments are in full swing at the Centre of Visual Arts & Research (CVAR) in Nicosia, where a series of creative workshops are set to delight children this holiday season. Running throughout December and January, these eight unique workshops aim to blend art, imagination, and history, providing children with educational experiences that are both fun and engaging.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Festive moments: Exploring History through Creativity
The workshops draw inspiration from the CVAR collection, allowing children to explore the history of Cyprus while engaging in artistic activities. Each workshop is designed for a small group of children, ensuring personalised attention and a rich learning experience.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Upcoming Workshops Schedule
- Travellers Brought Gifts: December 6, 11am – 12.30pm
- Painting Wishes: December 13, 11am – 12.30pm
- Ah! Melusine is Coming: December 20, 11am – 12.30pm
- Pinocchio’s Workshop: December 23, 11am – 12.30pm
- Revolt at the Museum: December 24, 11am – 12.30pm
- Festive Popcorn and a Film: December 27, 11am – 12.30pm
- New Year’s Eve Eve: December 30, 11am – 12.30pm
- Arrival of the Goblins: January 3, 11am – 12.30pm
Adventurous Starts with Travellers Brought Gifts
The first workshop, Travellers Brought Gifts, invites children to embark on an imaginative journey through Cyprus’s rich history. Taking place on December 6, participants will set sail as various historical characters, including painters and archaeologists. They will discover hidden gifts that will enhance their exploration of the island’s landmarks, from castles to beaches.
Creativity Meets Compassion in Painting Wishes
On December 13, the Painting Wishes workshop will inspire children to create handmade greeting cards using a variety of festive materials. These cards will be delivered to Makarios Hospital, aiming to bring smiles to fellow children receiving care during the holidays.
Discovering Cyprus’s Royal Heritage
As Christmas approaches, the Ah! Melusine is Coming! workshop on December 20 will introduce children to the enchanting story of Cyprus’s first queen. Through storytelling and interactive activities, they will learn about the island’s history as a French kingdom while creating their own representations of Melusine.
Artistry in Metal at Pinocchio’s Workshop
On December 23, children will have the opportunity to visit a nearby metalworking studio as part of Pinocchio’s Workshop. Led by local artist Sotiris Sevastidis, participants will learn about the art of metalworking and create their own festive ornaments, adding a personal touch to their holiday decorations.
Engaging with History on Christmas Eve
The Revolt at the Museum workshop on December 24 will engage children in a detective-themed experience centred around Cyprus’s political and social history. Through guided play, they will interact with historical narratives and deepen their understanding of the island’s past.
Festive Film Fun and Creativity
Following Christmas, children can enjoy a film screening on December 27, featuring charming characters that explore themes of acceptance and friendship. After the film, participants will design their own Christmas ornaments, drawing inspiration from both the film and the museum’s collections.
Celebrating New Year’s Traditions
The New Year’s Eve Eve workshop on December 30 will immerse children in the traditions of the Governor’s Palace, where they will learn about the first formal dinner held there. Participants will examine tableware and the menu, igniting curiosity about historical dining practices.
Ending with Mischief and Fun
The final workshop, Arrival of the Goblins, scheduled for January 3, invites children to engage in playful role-playing. They will meet mischievous goblins and learn about traditional Cypriot customs used to protect against their tricks, culminating in creative activities that bring the goblin legend to life.
Participate in the Festivities
Each workshop runs from 11am to 12.30pm and is priced at €10 per child. The CVAR invites interested families to register by calling 22-300991 or emailing [email protected].
