Julia Astreou-Christoforou

Weaver

©Julia Astreou-Chrstoforou

The Cypriot weaver

Julia uses traditional weaving looms
The past and present merge in her objects
Her work has been exhibited internationally

Julia Astreou studied Textiles and Fashion Design in the United Kingdom. Working at the Cyprus Handicrafts Service for two decades, she became fond of traditional weaving. She left her job and started researching and experimenting, creating innovative pieces of art and objects made of woven textiles, which bring together tradition and modernity. Her pieces are unique and authentic; they have been exhibited in international exhibitions in Poland, Italy, Lithuania, Sweden, Belgium and the United Kingdom. Her work in “textile art and design and research in traditional textiles” was awarded the silver prize of the “Arts, Sciences, Lettres” in Paris. Julia can be found in her studio located in a charming traditional house in the central square of Kaimakli, Nicosia.

Interview

©Julia Astreou-Chrstoforou

©Julia Astreou-Chrstoforou

How did you become interested in weaving?: After getting my degree in Textiles and Fashion Design from the Winchester School of Art (UK), I worked in the Cyprus Handicraft Service. There I learned traditional skills from old ladies. I was fascinated with the three-dimensional designs and I found weaving the most suitable means to express myself.
Where do you find inspiration?: I'm inspired by tradition. Hence, I use the Cypriot loom. I also find inspiration in my paintings, theatre costumes and notions such as rhythm, schemata and quantum physics. I do a lot of research on textiles and their history, which goes back to Neolithic times.
How do you merge tradition and innovation?: Research is a vital part of my work, and I spend much time with old ladies, learning from them. It is important that their skills and knowledge are kept alive. I love bridging the past and the present through modern, innovative designs that convey special messages.
Would you say that your craft is in danger?: Hand weaving is time consuming and requires tremendous patience and hard work. It is threatened by cheap mass-produced items. That’s why very few people are ready to take up this challenge. However, nothing can replace the beauty of handmade textiles.

Julia Astreou-Christoforou is a master artisan: she began her career in 1995 and she started teaching in 1995