Folk and Contemporary Art Pafiou (FACAP) is a Cyprus-based cultural organisation developing artistic projects at the intersection of folk and contemporary art. Rooted in the tradition of folk art and particularly in the art of shadow theatre, the organisation is connected with the cultural heritage of the Pafiou family, which carries a long-standing tradition in this field in Cyprus.
This heritage informs FACAP’s artistic identity and its understanding of the artist as a multidisciplinary creator and cultural mediator, bringing together performance, visual expression, community engagement and contemporary artistic practices.
Founded in 2024, the organisation is built upon the long-term artistic practice and research developed by artist Anthi Pafiou since 2012, connecting artistic creation, education and participatory approaches.
Artistic Foundation
The artistic direction of Folk and Contemporary Art Pafiou is informed by Anthi Pafiou’s long-term artistic research Remaining in the Present Moment / Present Tense (2012–2024). Developed through artistic practice, experimental processes, theoretical research and collaborations with scientists, this research forms the conceptual foundation that informs the organisation’s artistic projects, educational activities and participatory approaches.
Through this foundation, FACAP explores the relationship between artistic creation, human experience and collective participation.
Travelling Artist
Inspired by the tradition of the travelling artist, whose practice has historically moved across communities carrying stories, knowledge and artistic expression, Folk and Contemporary Art Pafiou embraces mobility as an essential element of its artistic approach.
The organisation views the artist not only as a creator, but also as a mediator between cultures, communities and different forms of knowledge. Through movement, exchange and direct interaction with people and places, artistic practice becomes a space for dialogue, connection and shared experience.
This approach reflects FACAP’s commitment to creating artistic projects that extend beyond traditional cultural spaces, reaching diverse communities and developing meaningful encounters through art.
Art, Communities and Human Connection
Folk and Contemporary Art Pafiou develops a cultural practice rooted in collaboration, participation and respect for both cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression. Through artistic creation, education and participatory practices, FACAP explores ways in which art can strengthen relationships between individuals and communities.
Artistic Approach
FACAP develops interdisciplinary projects that bring together folk traditions, contemporary artistic practices, performance and visual arts. Each project responds to its specific social and cultural context, creating opportunities for shared creative experiences.
Activities
Artistic Projects
Development of interdisciplinary artistic works combining various types of arts and contemporary approaches with elements of folk culture.
Festivals & Public Art
Creation of festivals and public artistic initiatives that bring artists and communities together through shared cultural experiences.
Education & Workshops
Development of artistic workshops and participatory activities that use creative processes as spaces for expression, communication and learning.
Community and Cultural Collaboration
The organisation believes that art can create meaningful encounters between individuals and communities, providing spaces where different experiences, voices and perspectives can meet. Rooted in respect for cultural heritage while engaging with contemporary artistic practices, the organisation creates projects that connect artists, communities and different generations, contributing to a more inclusive and connected cultural landscape in Cyprus and beyond.
Based in Cyprus, Connected Internationally
Rooted in Cyprus and open to international collaboration, Folk and Contemporary Art Pafiou develops projects that connect local cultural contexts with wider European artistic networks.