Oriana Loucaidou - MFA Fine Art
‘Revitalising Tradition’
At the core of my artistic practice is a deep commitment to challenging tradition, pushing boundaries, and reclaiming embroidery as a contemporary form of expression. My work focuses on confronting the patriarchal norms and symbolic associations that have historically shaped traditional crafts, particularly Lefkaritika embroidery, a Cypriot art form. By recontextualizing this heritage in the modern art world, I aim to both preserve and elevate it, transforming embroidery into a medium that explores pressing themes such as gender, identity, and social change.
Lefkaritika, historically crafted by women and associated with purity and domesticity, carries a complex narrative of gendered labor and societal expectations. Traditionally, these intricate pieces, often made with white yarn to symbolize purity, were designed not as personal or creative expressions, but as dowries for marriage—items crafted to please the male gaze rather than be appreciated for their artistic merit. This relegation of women’s craft to domestic spheres speaks to the broader devaluation of female creativity under patriarchal systems.
In my work, I introduce unconventional elements—such as bold colors like pink—to disrupt these traditional associations and push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable within the framework of this cultural heritage. These interventions challenge the historical narratives surrounding femininity and purity, turning embroidery into a powerful tool for contemporary artistic discourse.
My practice is deeply rooted in personal history. The stories shared by my grandmother, a skilled practitioner of Lefkaritika, have provided a foundation for my exploration. Sitting with her, continuing the craft, and hearing the stories of generations of women in my family have not only shaped my understanding of this tradition but have imbued my work with personal meaning, allowing me to bridge the past with the future.
