A solo exhibition by the artist Kyriaki Costa

A new solo exhibition by Cypriot artist Kyriaki Costa, entitled Murmus kairos, is opening in Limassol. The opening is timed to coincide with the official launch of Velychko Gallery’s permanent exhibition space and will take place as part of the annual Limassol Art Walks art trail.

Curated by Deniz Arauz, the exhibition brings together the artist’s new sculptures, embroidery and paintings. It will be open to the public from 9 October to 15 December 2026.

The main themes and metaphors of the exhibition are:
The canary in the coal mine: The inspiration for the exhibition’s concept came from the famous idiom, which originated in the early 19th century when miners took cages of canaries with them underground. Due to their high sensitivity to toxic gases, the birds were the first to die, warning people of the danger. Kiriaki Costa uses this image to explore contemporary warning signs that demand an immediate response, whilst also raising complex questions about systemic inequality — specifically, which creatures or sections of society are sacrificed for the sake of others’ safety.

Ants as a symbol of cooperation: Ants serve as a counterpoint to the gloomy mine tunnel in the exhibition. The artist embroiders and carves their figures, inviting viewers to see in their hidden yet efficient system of coexistence a metaphor for hope and collective resistance. The image did not arise by chance: whilst renovating the building to house the gallery, workers discovered a real ant colony behind the walls, which Costa has incorporated into her work.

Opening: 9 October 2026, 5.00 pm to 9.00 pm

During the Limassol Art Walks event, 10–11 October — opening hours 11.00 am to 6.00 pm
Velychko Gallery, Limassol (junction of 2 Kitiou Kiprianou Street and We Space)

The exhibition is open during the Limassol Art Walks festival; at other times, visits are by appointment only – please call 96-855580.