How an old carob warehouse turned into a culture hub in Limassol’s art scene
Special Feature 10:27 - 19 September 2024
Limassol, once a bustling port city, is experiencing a rapid and remarkable metamorphosis. Its skyline stretches higher, its business center is evolving into an advanced tech hub, and the broader city is becoming a magnet for international talent and high-net-worth individuals.
This influx of wealth and diversity is driving a cultural evolution in Cyprus’ co-capital, transforming it into a sophisticated and cosmopolitan destination.
From carob warehouse to culture hub
Nestled in an old carob warehouse in the historic area called Tsiflikoudia, the PSI Foundation is at the forefront of this cultural awakening. Having only been in operation for just over a year, PSI has already made a profound impact on Cyprus' art scene and cultural landscape. With a series of well-curated exhibitions, it aims to challenge the conventional notions of art and technology, positioning the foundation as a driving force behind Limassol's cultural evolution.
The carob warehouse itself is also rich in history. Conceived in the late 1950s by a local engineer and architect, it was completed in 1961. Its facade resembles an inverted Ψ, the Greek letter for “Psi,” and beautifully reflects on the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Inside, the expansive space, once filled with the sweet aroma of carob pods, now pulsates with the energy of contemporary art installations through thought-provoking exhibitions and engaging programs. It’s a space where multiple art forms and artists converge to create captivating visitor experiences.
X marks the spot, Ψ marks the art
PSI’s current flagship exhibition, “Casts of an Island 2024,” curated by Nicos Chr. Pattichis, brings together the works of several Cypriot artists in an exploration of what drives their creativity. Featuring artists like Kyriaki Costa, Stelios Kallinikou, Phanos Kyriakou, and Elina Ioannou, the exhibition explores how artists connect their art to the broader global community, illuminating themes of belonging, critical thinking, and the role of art in the process of creating memories and healing.
Beyond the main exhibition, PSI also offers a range of engaging programs. From October, Exploring the Island, part of Casts of an Island, fosters the concept of discovery in learning in an interactive and playful way. With specially designed backpacks, families will independently navigate the exhibition, read maps, follow instructions to solve puzzles and learn about the exhibits in a fun and exploratory manner.
The initiative invites children to explore the world of contemporary art in Cyprus and the recent history of our island. Through the exhibited art, children will be able to generate new reflections and understand the different sections of the exhibitions as well as the conceptual dialogues between the works.
Art as a catalyst
PSI Foundation is a place where the boundary between life and art is blurred, disciplines and culture merge, and new ideas and timeless discussions find common ground. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, PSI is a space that will pique your interest, offering a unique experience that challenges your perspectives and sparks new ways of seeing the world.
Plan your visit
So make sure you visit this cultural space and have a unique experience.
→ For free tours, book your spot here.
A thoughtfully curated selection of merch also allows visitors to take a piece of the experience home, further extending the foundation's reach and impact.