The exhibition presents a series of watercolours by the artist Veronika Hadjifani Lorenzetti, executed at a scale of 1:1 from live fruit specimens. These works offer a faithful and striking representation of the biodiversity of Cyprus’ fruit.The main objective of the exhibition is to transmit to younger generations the importance of preserving ancient fruit varieties, which represent not only a cultural and national heritage, but also a precious treasure of biodiversity that needs to be protected. These fruits – grapes, figs and other varieties – which bear witness to the economic and social development of Cyprus, are in danger of disappearing and the exhibition aims to raise public awareness of the importance of their preservation.

Botanical art plays a fundamental role in preserving the memory of these varieties, combining aesthetic beauty and scientific value. Botanical illustrations make it possible to accurately depict the morphological characteristics of the various species, contributing to their identification and conservation. The exhibition is a valuable pictorial contribution to the conservation of the biodiversity of the fruits of Cyprus.

Veroniki Hadjifani Lorenzetti was born in Kalavasos, Cyprus and grew up in Larnaca. She studied Commercial Design at Lanchester Polytechnic (now Coventry University). She has worked as a freelancer in the fields of advertising and publishing between Milan and Rome. Since 1992, he has devoted himself mainly to physiognostic and botanical painting, always at 1:1 scale and using a stereoscope, carrying out thorough research on the endemic plants and ancient fruit varieties of Cyprus and Italy, as well as other plants. He now lives between Italy and Cyprus and works all over Europe.

Exhibition Opening:  10 April 2025, at 20:00-22:00

Venue:  House of Cyprus-Cultural Centre| Xenofontos 2Α, Athens

Exhibition Duration:  10 April – 25 April 2025

Working Hours:  Monday, Wednesday| 10:00 – 19:00

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday| 10:00 – 15:00

Curated by:  Paola Lorenzetti

Coordinated by:  Maria Ragia