We are excited to present an exclusive interview with Lia Lapithi, a conceptual multi-disciplinary artist based in Nicosia, Cyprus. With her work currently being showcased at the Cyprus pavilion during the Architecture Biennale 2023 in Venice, where she explores the themes of social sustainability and space exploration, Lia is also part of the jury committee at the Larnaca Biennale 2023.
In this interview, she shares her unique insights on the concept of "home," the role of contemporary art, and the faux-pas within the art world. Lia also discusses her expectations for the Larnaca Biennale and the evolving role of biennials within the government of Cyprus. Finally, she offers valuable advice to emerging artists submitting their work for consideration in the Larnaca Biennale.
The Venice Biennale is kicking off with Cyprus’ representation though scientific discoveries. How does it inspire your work as a multi-media and performance artist?
The news about the signal from Oumuamua and the suggestion that we, as a species, are considered primitive and self-destructive resonates with me and my work as an artist. In many of my pieces, I explore themes related to the human condition and the ways in which we interact with our environment and each other. I believe that the current state of the world, with its ongoing conflicts and environmental degradation, is a reflection of our collective shortcomings as a species. As such, I am drawn to the idea of leaving Earth and starting anew on another planet, like Mars. In my view, this represents a potential escape from the cycle of violence and destruction that we seem to be perpetually caught in. While this may seem like a drastic solution, I believe that as artists, it is our role to provoke thought and inspire action towards a more positive future.
What does “home” mean to you?
Not, interesting, primitive and self-destructive” – this is how the aliens describes us earthlings, and I agree with them. While this news may come as a shock to some, to me this is completely true. Indeed we human earthlings are “primitive and self destructive”. That’s why I’m moving to planet Mars, at least until the violence on Earth stops. As for what “home” means to me, I suppose it’s wherever I feel safe and at peace, whether that’s on Earth or another planet.
As a jury member, what do you hope to see in the submissions for the “Home Away From Home” theme of the Larnaca Biennale 2023?
As a jury member for the Larnaca Biennale 2023, I have an open mind to see the submissions for the “Home Away From Home” theme. With open mind I mean: everything – something, anything, and nothing. While judging the work I will be looking for qualities such as innovation, quality, depth of thought, and vision. I recommend the artists to stay true to oneself and telling the story in their own words.
How can contemporary art shift perspectives for themes such as home, displacement, and identity?
Contemporary art has the power to shift perspectives. Through art, we challenge existing perceptions, provoke thought, and encourage new ways of thinking. However, it’s important to note that these themes are often intertwined with politics and social issues, and as artists, we need to be aware of the potential impact of our work. It’s not enough to simply create art for art’s sake; we need to engage in critical research and preparation to ensure that our work is impactful and meaningful. Ultimately, our goal should be to create a high-quality three Michelin-star meal that challenges and inspires, rather than a bland buffet that fails to make an impact.
Could you discuss a particularly memorable artwork or exhibition that you have seen in the past and what made it stand out to you?
Adrian Piper’s “3/7/15” at the Venice art biennial stood out to me. I signed her personal declaration (“rules of the game #1”): “I, the undersigned, hereby certify that I will always be too expensive to buy”. It’s framed in my atelier. It says it all. Never sell yourself short, undervaluing your skills, abilities and performance.
How do you see the role of the Larnaca Biennale and similar events evolving in the coming years, and what impact do you think they have on the art world as a whole?
As a great supporter of the Larnaca Biennale, I believe that putting on an event of this size is crucial for the growth and evolution of the art world. Despite the uphill struggle of securing grant government funding (Cyprus lacks dealers, collectors and foundations to help out) the Larnaca Biennale with its private initiative has continued to showcase the work of artists from around the world, and deserves a big applause for their efforts. Cyprus, with its rich cultural heritage, has the potential to be a cultural hub of Europe. However, this can only be achieved if the government administers recognizes the importance of investing in the arts and prioritizes it accordingly.
What advice would you give to emerging artists who are submitting their work for consideration in the Larnaca Biennale 2023?
Larnaca Biennale is open to all artists, regardless of their age. It is not a younger artist biennial, nor is it limited to any specific age group. As for advice to emerging artists who are submitting their work, I would say besides the obvious “to stay true to your vision and be authentic in your work’, is that the journey artists take is parallel with their fellow artists and not antagonists against each other.