**A Minute With: Avgi Papakyriacou, Ballet Instructor and Director of Motion Art Studio**
In the heart of Nicosia, Avgi Papakyriacou has carved out a niche for herself as a prominent ballet instructor and the director of Motion Art Studio. With a passion for dance that extends beyond the classroom, Papakyriacou has dedicated her life to shaping the next generation of dancers while also nurturing her own creative pursuits.
Living in Nicosia with her husband, Papakyriacou reflects on her life as an empty nester, with both of her daughters having moved out. This new chapter has allowed her to focus more on her professional endeavors and personal interests. “I enjoy starting my day with a big bowl of fruit salad sprinkled with maca powder,” she shares, emphasizing her commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
When asked to describe her perfect day, Papakyriacou envisions a serene escape into nature. “A day close to nature, preferably in a forest or a beautiful garden, where I can read a book, meditate, and simply relax,” she explains. This connection to nature is mirrored in her artistic philosophy, where she encourages her students to find inspiration in their surroundings.
Papakyriacou's love for literature is evident as she struggles to choose a single favorite book. “So many books have helped me throughout the years,” she notes. Titles such as "Real Magic" by Wayne W. Dyer, "How Not To Die" by Michael Greger, and "Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child" by John Gottman have all played significant roles in shaping her perspectives on life, health, and parenting.
Reflecting on her childhood, Papakyriacou recalls the joy of playing with friends until sunset, a stark contrast to the structured lives many children lead today. “We were lucky to have that freedom back then,” she reminisces, highlighting the importance of play and creativity in childhood development.
In her kitchen, Papakyriacou maintains a simple yet essential diet, stating, “Salad and olives are always in my fridge. We cannot live without them!” This commitment to healthy eating aligns with her belief in the importance of nutrition, which she emphasizes to her students as well.
Music plays a role in her daily life, especially during car rides. While she often enjoys silence, she admits to being a fan of Billie Eilish. “If I choose to listen to something, it would be her songs. She is the best!” This appreciation for Eilish's artistry reflects Papakyriacou's own creative spirit.
Describing her spirit animal, she identifies with the horse, noting its elegance, freedom, and power. “It’s also my Chinese horoscope animal,” she adds, connecting her personal identity with this majestic creature.
Professionally, Papakyriacou expresses pride in her ability to fulfill her vision and make a meaningful difference in the lives of her students. “I am proud of fulfilling my vision to its fullest,” she states, emphasizing her commitment to teaching and mentorship.
Cinematic moments also resonate with her, particularly the iconic scene from "The Sound of Music" where Julie Andrews as Maria sings joyfully in the hills. “I love this movie!” she exclaims, illustrating her appreciation for art that inspires joy and freedom.
If given the chance to spend an evening with anyone, Papakyriacou would choose Billie Eilish’s mother, citing her alignment with Eilish's ethics. This admiration for strong, principled figures is a recurring theme in her life.
Looking to the future, she expresses a desire to time travel, envisioning a visit to Europe. “I would go to the future… in Europe somewhere,” she muses, indicating her curiosity about what lies ahead.
Despite her adventurous spirit, Papakyriacou admits to having fears, particularly of roller coasters and bungee jumping. “It’s not so much of fearing them; it’s more about not wanting to experience them,” she clarifies, showcasing her preference for stability over thrill-seeking.
Reflecting on her younger self, she offers a piece of advice: “Go vegan now to have a healthy life and help the planet and the animals.” This commitment to sustainability and health underscores her values both personally and professionally.
When it comes to relationships, Papakyriacou is clear about her boundaries, stating that substance abuse would be a dealbreaker for her. In a hypothetical scenario where the world is ending in 24 hours, her priorities are straightforward: “I would be with my loved ones.”
As the director of Motion Art Studio, Avgi Papakyriacou continues to inspire and educate through her passion for ballet, choreography, and the arts. Her journey is a testament to the power of creativity, connection, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Follow her artistic endeavors on social media @motionartstudio and @avgipapakyriakou.