Count me in! Diverse-it Arts Festival

Interview with Rictus Franck from Diverse-it Arts Festival

Could you describe the Diverse-it Arts Festival?

The Diverse-it Arts Festival is a multi-artistic platform designed to foster exchange and connection. We created it to provide a voice to migrant artists in the northern part of Cyprus, a region often overlooked and unrecognised. Our aim is to bridge gaps between underrepresented and local artists, allowing them to express and celebrate art and creativity in a shared space. We want to emphasise the richness each community brings, showcasing their commonalities and celebrating diversity through art.

What is the festival’s relationship with Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEAIB)?

DEAIB isn't just a concept for us; it's the foundation of everything we do. As an African artist and migrant in Northern Cyprus, I've faced challenges accessing artistic spaces, which inspired us to build this platform ourselves. By connecting with like-minded individuals, we created community-based activities and engaged migrant and local artists from both the northern and southern parts of Cyprus. This exchange has allowed us to bridge divides and offer a platform where all artists, regardless of background, can express themselves freely and collaboratively.

Could you share an inspiring story or anecdote about DEAIB that took place at your festival?

Last year, we met a Turkish Cypriot dancer with immense skill and passion who had spent many years abroad, embodying a global, multicultural mindset. He returned to Cyprus for our festival and connected with a Greek artist from the South. During the festival, they supported each other’s performances, discovering shared experiences despite their communities’ histories. They realised they had much in common and wanted to promote unity, especially for younger generations, to move beyond past traumas and look toward a shared future. This festival allowed them to experience art beyond borders, united by a shared commitment to peace and love. Moments like these affirm that our work is making an impact.

What challenges have you encountered while implementing DEAIB at your festival?

One of our biggest challenges is funding, especially as an unrecognised, grassroots organisation. Financial constraints limit our ability to support artists and provide materials. Additionally, securing spaces that are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities, has been a hurdle. We were fortunate to partner with local venues that could support accessibility needs, but ensuring full inclusivity remains a struggle without adequate resources. Political barriers also restrict our movement and access within Cyprus, making collaboration between communities complexes. Despite these obstacles, we’re committed to creating a space where everyone can freely express themselves, and we hope future editions will bring more support for these vital issues.

Interview done by Paula Gozalvez.