The program was based on the inscriptions of Cypro Syllabic script, which are exhibited in the Museum of Cycladic Art. The Cyprominoic script seems to have appeared in Cyprus in the 11th c. BC and was used for writing both Greek and Eteocypriot, the ancient language of the inhabitants of Cyprus prior to the advent of Hellenic population in the late 13th c. BC. Writing is a means of communication since ancient times. What keeps it alive and relevant is its flexibility to evolve according to people’s needs. The Cypro-syllabic script essentially carries and uses elements of the Minoan, the Cypriot and Mycenaean civilizations, while its inscriptions are even found in Syria. Decryption was done using bilingual inscriptions both in Greek and Phoenician. The use of the script is evident around 1200 BC during a period of intense economic and commercial activity in Cyprus. The script functioned as a base of communication between people that spoke different languages.

The art workshop used the Cyprosyllabic script so as to bring together teenagers that speak different languages and use different writing codes and it is designed to promote an alternative way of study and understanding of the Cyprosyllabic script exhibited on the 3rd floor of the Museum of Cycladic Art under the Cypriot collection. The program ‘s scope was to find a way to bring together refugee children and youths with students of the same age, children and youths that live permanently in Greece. It provided the children with the platform to exercise their fundamental right of self expression, to practice art, to communicate and to be offered the chance to interact with children of the same age group without discrimination and beyond stereotypes.
The program addressed children of age 6-12 years old but also teenagers and it was designed at the height of the refugee crisis in Greece in 2015.

The CM script was used as a common language through art. The workshop created a chance for interaction. Children from completely different backgrounds and experiences were brought together and they were provided with a neutral space to engage socially while experimenting with different artistic forms. The program focused on communication while
at the same time it built confidence and provided artistic empowerment.

In June 2020, the program was selected to be included in the ICOM Russia Handbook for best museum work practices with the topic of migration, inclusion and diversity.

https://www.lifo.gr/guide/culturenews/arts/123425

Photos : Paris Tativian