Paphos Art Exhibition Shut Down Amid Blasphemy Row and Death Threats

Paphos, Cyprus — A controversial art exhibition titled "Antisystemic Art" by Cypriot painter Giorgos Gavriil (also known as George Gavriel) was abruptly cancelled less than 24 hours after its opening on Saturday, December 13, 2025, following intense public backlash and reported death threats against the gallery owner.

The Blue Iris Gallery in Paphos announced the closure on Sunday, December 14, stating that the show had provoked "opposition from a segment of society" and that it did not wish to become a "conduit for further unrest." The gallery emphasized that there was never any intent to offend religion or show disrespect, reaffirming its mission to promote art and culture.

The exhibition featured politically charged works incorporating Orthodox Christian icons, including depictions of Christ and the Virgin Mary in contemporary or provocative contexts addressing issues like corruption, migration, and the war in Gaza. Critics labeled the pieces as "blatant blasphemy" and a "desecration" of sacred symbols.

Escalating Reactions and Threats

The controversy erupted immediately after the opening, with political figures quickly weighing in:

• DISY deputy president Efthymios Diplaros condemned the works as "blatant blasphemy," calling for respect for believers' religious sentiments and rejecting freedom of expression as an excuse for offense.
• ELAM demanded legal action, with plans to raise the issue in Parliament.
• The Archbishopric of Cyprus spokesman Christakis Efstathiou described the art as "brutally provoking the religious feelings of the faithful," while praising the gallery's decision to cancel.

Gavriil himself revealed that the shutdown was prompted by serious threats: anonymous callers allegedly threatened the gallery owner's life and vowed to damage the building. He also reported an incident during the opening where three young men removed some works from display (later rehung). Police were informed and present discreetly, but no formal complaint was filed by the owner due to fear.

The artist accused critics, including Diplaros, of sharing manipulated or collaged images online to inflame reactions. Gavriil defended his work, saying it highlights rather than mocks Christianity, using religious imagery for social commentary in the tradition of "anti-systemic" art.

Ongoing Debate on Artistic Freedom

The incident has reignited debates in Cyprus over the boundaries between artistic expression and religious sensitivity. Supporters view the backlash as censorship and intimidation, while opponents argue it crosses into outright blasphemy.

Gavriil, a Moscow-trained artist and former high school principal, has faced similar controversies in the past, including disciplinary probes by the Ministry of Education (later suspended) over earlier provocative pieces. His work often blends religious iconography with political critique, dividing public opinion for years.

As of December 18, 2025, no charges have been filed, but the case underscores persistent tensions around blasphemy and free speech in Cypriot society.