Presented by artist Sithabile Mlotshwa, ‘What Has Cyprus Got to Do with Colonialism?’ is an introductory presentation marking the starting point of a major three-part research-based project: Threads of Displacement – From Cyprus to Global Colonial Legacies. This project explores the colonisation of Cyprus and its connections to European and global colonial histories.

 

Mlotshwa’s introduction will take the form of an exhibition showcasing her research process, including according to the artist, a rare find of looted objects from her people and across the African continent that she discovered in Larnaka, Cyprus. These artefacts tell a profound story of colonial displacement: objects systematically moved from British colonies in Africa to another British colony, Cyprus.

 

As the first presentation by the Contested Desires artist-in-residence, this event is hosted by D6:EU and Larnaka 2030 – European Capital of Culture Candidate City.

 

Mlotshwa’s approach to Contested Desires: Constructive Dialogues is grounded in a critical perspective: colonialism is not just a historical artefact but a living, evolving system.

 

Her research argues that:

• Systemic injustice and normalised oppression are deliberate and deeply embedded in society.

• Colonialism is infiltrated in core societal structures, including law, politics, religion, and education.

• Its influence extends beyond institutions, shaping every aspect of contemporary life.

• Global systems continue to operate within imperial structures of knowledge production.

• The concept of ‘Post-Colonialism’ is a myth, masking ongoing colonial structures and imperial power.

• And that we are all stuck in Historical Foundations of Colonialism, and because of this, do not address the Contemporary Manifestations and Future Colonial projects all happening now.

 

Through a transdisciplinary approach, Mlotshwa will trace and visualise Cyprus’ multi-layered colonial histories, the ongoing contemporary and future manifestations and its connections to global colonial projects. A central focus of the research-based project is a critical examination of colonial environmental destruction, explored through a comprehensive three-part investigation spanning multiple continents.