.ART

The vibrant coastal city of Limassol is set to host VIMA.ART, the first international contemporary art fair in Cyprus, from May 15 to 18, 2025. Located within a repurposed industrial building that once housed one of the island’s oldest wineries, the fair promises to merge the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus with the dynamic energy of contemporary art.

The name VIMA (Βήμα), which means “step” or “platform” in Greek, reflects the fair’s ambition: to create a bridge between the rapidly evolving Cypriot art scene and its regional neighbors. Positioned at the crossroads of East and West, Cyprus provides a fertile space for cultivating new relationships and fostering cultural exchanges. By embracing its unique geographic and social context, VIMA aspires to establish an inclusive and accessible stage for the multitude of artistic voices.

VIMA will spotlight contemporary art from Cyprus and the broader Mediterranean region, celebrating the cultural richness of coastal communities. With a mix of emerging and established galleries, as well as artist-run spaces, the fair aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the region’s thriving art scene. Beyond showcasing local talent, VIMA is designed as a platform for international dialogue, inviting galleries, curators, and artists from abroad to participate in collaborative exchanges.

The venue itself, a striking ex-industrial structure overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, holds deep historical significance. Originally part of the SODAP winery (Cooperative Organization for the Distribution of Viticultural Products), it served as a major production center for Limassol and Paphos grapes after its construction in 1947. Over decades, the building fell into disrepair as production moved to modern facilities. Its transformation into an art fair venue marks a symbolic revival of the site, connecting Cyprus’ industrial past with its creative future.

Participation in VIMA.Art is by invitation, ensuring a curated selection of exceptional galleries and projects. Each year, an international curator will take up residency in Cyprus, collaborating with regional artists to develop unique exhibitions. This initiative underscores VIMA’s commitment to nurturing conversations across borders while developing ideas within the local context.

The fair is co-founded by Edgar Gadzhiev, Lara Kotreleva, and Nadezhda Zinovskaya, supported by a committee of prominent figures in the Cypriot art scene. These include Alexandros Diogenous (Founder of Pylon Art & Culture and Co-founder of Limassol Art Walks), Tasos Stylianou (Director and Co-founder of Limassol Art Walks), and Andre Zivanari (Founder and Director of Point Center for Contemporary Art, Nicosia).

VIMA.Art promises to be more than just an art fair; it is a step toward reimagining Cyprus as a vibrant hub for contemporary art and cross-cultural dialogue. With its striking setting and ambitious vision VIMA aims to make a lasting impact, bringing the local art scene to the global art market.