Women involved in the traditional art of Lefkara embroidery are set to submit proposals to President Nikos Christodoulides, aiming to safeguard this cherished craft.
- Women involved in the traditional art of Lefkara embroidery are set to submit proposals to President Nikos Christodoulides, aiming to safeguard this cherished craft.
On Sunday, the president visited the Lefkara Conference Centre, where he engaged with the embroiderers while presenting the priorities of Cyprus’ upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union. The occasion showcased the intricate Lefkara embroidery, which serves as the inspiration for the official logo of the Cypriot EU presidency.
Despite the craft being formally standardised and protected, with recognition from UNESCO as part of Cyprus’ intangible cultural heritage, the embroiderers expressed concerns over its future. They highlighted that the tradition is at risk of vanishing, primarily due to two significant challenges.
The first issue is the struggle to achieve a sustainable income solely from embroidery. Many artisans find it difficult to make a living from their craft in a modern economic landscape that often undervalues traditional skills. The second challenge lies in the dwindling interest among younger generations to learn and continue this age-old tradition. The women fear that without new talent, the art of Lefkara embroidery may not survive.
In a constructive dialogue with the embroiderers, President Christodoulides acknowledged these challenges. He encouraged them to articulate their concerns and suggestions through written proposals. During this meeting, Lefkara mayor Sophocles Sophocleous was also present, underscoring the community’s commitment to preserving this vital aspect of their cultural heritage.
The president’s invitation for concrete proposals is a hopeful sign that the government may take steps to support the continuation of Lefkara embroidery. This initiative reflects a broader recognition of the importance of local crafts and their role in cultural identity.
As the deadline for proposals approaches, the women of Lefkara are preparing to outline specific measures that could bolster the craft’s future. Their efforts are a testament to the resilience of traditional arts and the commitment of the community to preserve their cultural legacy.
