Turkish Cypriot artist who designed the flag of Northern Cyprus presents his work in Nicosia

Opening of the exhibition at the Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre

A new exhibition entitled " A Slight Indisposition The exhibition, which brings together 16 artists from Cyprus and abroad, has opened. Among the participants is the Turkish Cypriot artist Emin Cizenel.

Criticism due to political significance

Emin Cizenel's participation has drawn criticism from the Ecologists' Party. They argue that his role as designer of the Northern Cyprus flag is politically charged. In a statement released before the opening, they emphasized that Cizenel is known not only for his artistic work but also as the creator of the flag of the northern part of Cyprus, which they describe as a "pseudo-state." The Ecologists view this flag as a symbol of the Turkish occupation and the division of the island.

Discussion about art and political symbols

The Ecologists' Party points out that art is a space for free expression and creativity, but that it is important to consider the political and social implications of inviting artists whose work relates to symbols of the island's division. They also emphasize the importance of historical memory and sensitivity to events that affect the present and future of Cyprus.

Career of Emin Cizenel

Emin Cizenel comes from the village of Malia near Limassol. He studied painting at the Istanbul Academy of Fine Arts and continued his studies in Vienna. He is considered the designer of the flag that has been used in northern Cyprus since the early 1980s, including as a print on the Pentadaktylos Mountains.