Memories
Elia Neophytou

I had the pleasure of working with the Goethe-Institut to coordinate and implement the interactive installation The Disappearing Wall, an impressive and remarkable event presented in ten European countries under the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The purpose of the Disappearing Wall was to highlight multiculturalism and diversity by presenting famous quotes and excerpts from novels, favourite movies, poems and philosophical works of Europe.

Engraved on 6,000 wooden bricks, the quotes were placed in a wall-mounted installation. Maria Yablonina's idea in collaboration with the Institute was presented in busy public spaces, thus giving visitors the opportunity to choose and take away the saying that expresses them until the wall "disappears". In Cyprus the installation was presented on both sides of Nicosia and in Limassol.

The event breathed new life into cities at a time when the pandemic had left its mark on culture and created a sense of isolation.

For 60 years, the Goethe-Institut in Cyprus has contributed substantially to the promotion and support of cultural events and has strengthened the artistic cooperation between Germany and Cyprus. I have had the good fortune to attend various events in recent years, such as film screenings and art exhibitions in the magnificent building that houses the institute. I consider it an important part of the cultural map of Cyprus with its diachronic work. I wish the Goethe-Institut a happy anniversary, and I look forward to following its course in the coming years.