A New Dawn for Artistic Creation in Lemba
In the quaint village of Lemba, Paphos, a new chapter unfolds with the establishment of the Lemba Culture Village, a beacon of artistic creation and education. This cultural hub is the brainchild of the late Cypriot artist Stass Paraskos, whose vision was to create a vibrant center for artists to converge, collaborate, and express their creativity.
Paraskos, a figure celebrated for his artistic prowess, which he refined in England, founded the Cyprus College of Art in Famagusta. The turmoil of the 1974 Turkish invasion led to a relocation, but Paraskos’ resilience shone through as he made Lemba his sanctuary. Here, he breathed new life into abandoned properties, transforming them into a reputable art school that drew international acclaim. His legacy is immortalized in the open-air sculptures that dot the village, each a collaborative effort with his students.
The concept of the Lemba Culture Village took root in 2007, backed by then-Education Minister Akis Kleanthous, who was an ardent supporter of Paraskos’ dream. The project’s allure remained potent over the years, culminating in an architectural competition in 2016 that saw 40 imaginative submissions vie for realization. The winning design was crafted by a team led by Spyros Spyrou and included Haris Christodoulou, Angela Zisimopoulou, and Charis Solomou. Their vision has now come to fruition with the completion of construction.
The design team’s commitment to creating an authentic “village” feel is evident in the layout of the Lemba Culture Village. Art workshops and guesthouses are strategically placed to promote social interaction among Cypriot students and visiting international artists. Shared courtyards and versatile spaces are designed to host a myriad of cultural events, inviting participation from the local Lemba community and the broader Cypriot society.
With its doors now open, the Lemba Culture Village stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and creativity. It promises to be a dynamic art village where cultural exchange and artistic endeavors flourish under the Mediterranean sun.
