**Wild Pre-Army Hairstyles of Paralimni Villages to Go on Show**
A unique photographic exhibition titled "Moikanes" (Mohicans) is set to take place at Serena Beach in Protaras next week, showcasing a fascinating cultural tradition among teenage boys in the Famagusta region of Cyprus. The exhibition, created by Cypriot visual artist Nikolas Louka, will be held on July 3 and will focus on the elaborate mohawk hairstyles sported by young men from the Kokkinochoria area as they prepare for their compulsory military service in the National Guard.
The tradition of styling these distinctive mohawk hairstyles is not merely a fashion statement; it serves as a significant social ritual for these young men. Participants typically spend several months growing their hair in anticipation of this rite of passage. The process culminates in a collaborative effort among friends, who gather in makeshift spaces to shape and dye their hair using improvised materials such as glue, reeds, and string. This communal activity can take anywhere from six to eight hours, emphasizing the strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie among the boys.
According to the exhibition, this practice is believed to have originated in the 1980s and has been passed down through generations of young men preparing for military service. Louka's work captures this moment of transition, highlighting the period between "rebellious adolescence and military service." The mohawk hairstyles are presented as "ephemeral sculptures on the body," designed to attract attention and be photographed before they are ultimately shaved off as the young men embark on their military duties.
The exhibition will be open to the public from midday until midnight, concluding with a celebratory party at the venue. This event not only showcases the artistic talent of Louka but also serves as a platform for discussing the cultural significance of these hairstyles within the context of Cypriot society.
Nikolas Louka, who studied photography in Athens before moving to London in 2011, has a diverse background in the visual arts. He founded E2 Studios in London and has collaborated with various international publications and brands, including British Vogue, Prada, and Sony. Since returning to Cyprus in 2024, Louka has continued to develop projects that explore local culture and identity, further enriching the artistic landscape of the island.
The "Moikanes" exhibition promises to be an engaging exploration of youth culture, tradition, and the transition into adulthood, making it a noteworthy event for both locals and visitors to the region.