A unique piece of art, centered around the letter 'R', a piece from the original sign of the Nicosia International Airport. This project blends historical significance with personal and family connections.
r: echoes of a pioneer
"R: Echoes of a Pioneer" captures a significant piece of history within the walls of the Classic Hotel, which once served as the vibrant home and workshop of Andreas Vassilopoulos, a pioneer in neon light artistry. This installation is centered around the letter 'R', salvaged from the sign of the Nicosia International Airport, an emblem of an era halted abruptly by the events of 1974 when the Turkish invasion in Cyprus led to the airport's closure. This letter stands as a poignant reminder of the resilience and changes that have shaped the area's history.
Andreas, with his wife Ivie Vassilopoulou by his side, illuminated Nicosia with his groundbreaking neon sign creations, for which he was awarded a world patent. The 'R', however, originates from a sign that showcased Andreas's versatility and innovation, being crafted with fluorescent lighting technology. The transformation of their home into the Classic Hotel weaves a narrative of creativity, innovation, and the enduring spirit of a family deeply embedded in the city's cultural fabric.
Following its recovery from the now silent airport, the 'R' has been revitalized, maintaining its original fluorescent functionality while preserving its historic metal facade. This blend of past and present highlights the ongoing legacy of a pioneer's contribution to the art of sign making and the importance of preserving history through adaptive reuse.
"R: Echoes of a Pioneer" offers hotel guests more than just a stay; it provides an immersive journey into Nicosia's past, marked by innovation and the impact of the 1974 conflict. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of art and memory, bridging decades of history, culture, and personal stories within a single illuminated letter.
Nicosia International airport
Nicosia International Airport is located in the capital city of Cyprus—Nicosia. It was originally the main airport of Cyprus but since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, it has been disused.
the letter r
The letter 'R' from the Nicosia International Airport sign was found in a state of disrepair, showcasing the ravages of time and abandonment. The rusty metal frame, intertwined with old wiring and fluorescent tubes, reflects its decades-long exposure to the elements. Despite its weathered appearance, the 'R' stands as a powerful symbol of history, awaiting restoration to reclaim its former glory.
Restoration process
The restoration involved replacing the old fluorescent lights with modern LEDs, cleaning the rusted metal frame, and replacing severely corroded sections. The final step was repainting the 'R' to maintain its vintage appearance. This meticulous process ensured the blend of historical authenticity with modern lighting technology.
Personal connection
As an artist, preserving this 'R' was a deeply personal project for me. It represents not only a piece of my family's history but also honors my grandfather's contributions to the art of sign making. Through this restoration, I aim to keep his pioneering spirit alive for future generations to appreciate and be inspired by.
"R: Echoes of a Pioneer" now shines brightly at the Classic Hotel, offering guests an immersive journey into Nicosia's past. This restoration serves as a testament to the enduring power of art and memory, bridging decades of history, culture, and personal stories within a single illuminated letter.
