Written by: Awit Alegre
Helena Alegre’s recent exhibitions in Cyprus mark a significant milestone in her career as a Filipina jeweler and artist. The first exhibition was her participation in the prestigious Cyprus Ayia Napa World Art Triennale 2025, where her sculptural jewelry piece, “The Crucifixion,” was awarded the Premio Excellence by an international jury. Crafted in sterling silver with Blue Tiger’s Eye, this piece blends Philippine filigree tradition with the Christian symbolism of Ayia Napa, creating a powerful dialogue between Filipino heritage and Cypriot history.
The award not only celebrates her technical mastery but also honors the resilience and artistry shaped by centuries of cultural exchange.
In Her Hands: Celebrating Women’s Legacy
Following her success at the Triennale, Helena Alegre’s exhibition “In Her Hands” opened at the Philippine Consulate in Larnaca. This showcase features a collection of jewelry and paintings that pay tribute to the creative legacy of women through craftsmanship and cultural memory.
Rooted in tradition and sustainability, each work reflects the resilience, identity, and evolving power of handmade practices. From intricate metalwork to expressive brushstrokes, the exhibition highlights how women’s hands carry ancestral knowledge and shape the future of art. “In Her Hands” fosters a meaningful dialogue between heritage and innovation, celebrating female artists and promoting a more inclusive, sustainable vision for art and adornment.
With Philippines Honorary Consul Charmagne Garcia- Laconico ,Deputy Mayor of Larnaka, Lasonas lasonides ,Ambassador Joseph Borghese Special Envoy for foreign direct investment,Msarra Enaeli Vice chairman of International womens club of cyprus, Andria neocleous executive director of the Hope For Children Crc policy center and mrs skevi koukouma former member of the Parliament and chairman of the house standing committe of refugees- enclave missing adversely affected person Representative of Famagusta constituency under the banner if Akel-Left- New Forces
With Vicki Minkova Panagi, artist and organizer of World Art Triennale 2025, Various Filipino Community organization leaders
127th Philippine Independence Day Celebration with Honorary Consul Charmagne Garcia- Laconico, H.E. Ambassador of Athens Giovanny Palec and his lovely wife Lyn Palec and artist Helena Alegre
Lace Women Weaver and Silver Handicraft
Our recent trip to Lefkara, Cyprus, was a memorable journey filled with cultural immersion, creative inspiration, and heartfelt bonding. As an intern and member of the HABI Philippine Textile Council, and with my mom also a member, our shared passion for textile arts made Lefkara a perfect destination.
We spent long hours walking the village’s picturesque streets, visiting the renowned Lefkara Handicraft Centre, where we witnessed skilled artisans at work and learned about the centuries-old traditions of lace making and silversmithing that define Lefkara’s cultural heritage.
Meeting Local Artists
We were honored to visit the studio of Jacki, an English artist who has lived on Cyprus for 35 years. Her artwork draws deep inspiration from the local scenes and lifestyle, capturing the essence of Cypriot life. Jacki, along with artist Aylin, gave us a personal tour of Lefkara, sharing their creative journeys and introducing us to the vibrant community of textile artisans.
Their generosity and openness made our experience truly special, and their stories enriched our understanding of the local craft scene.
Exploring the Handicraft Centre
At the Lefkara Handicraft Centre, we were immersed in the intricate world of traditional Cypriot embroidery and lacework. The center is dedicated to preserving and developing these crafts by training young people and supporting local artisans.
We watched as women meticulously created lace, admired the beautiful silver jewelry, and participated in conversations about the history and evolution of Lefkaritika embroidery, a craft recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Local Cuisine and Cultural Exchange
Our day was rounded out by sampling local cuisine and engaging with the warm hospitality of the village. We savored authentic Cypriot dishes, which added another layer to our cultural experience. The combination of creative exploration, meaningful encounters, and delicious food made our trip both educational and deeply inspiring.
This visit to Lefkara not only deepened our appreciation for textile arts but also strengthened the connection between our Philippine textile community and the rich traditions of Cyprus.
