WIP Festival 2026: FLOWS

WIP Festival (Work in Progress) is an annual international arts and technology festival in Nicosia, organised by CYENS Centre of Excellence. It brings together artists, designers, researchers and technologists to explore how creative practice, science and emerging technologies influence the way we experience the world. The 2026 edition, FLOWS, explores the movements and connections that shape contemporary life: water and energy, environmental change, digital networks, cultural memory and human interaction. With Cyprus and the wider Mediterranean as an important point of reference, the festival examines issues such as water scarcity, migration, sustainability, technological change and the relationship between physical and digital worlds. Across ten days, visitors can discover more than 50 artworks and projects by over 60 participating artists from 15 countries. The programme includes contemporary art exhibitions, interactive and immersive installations, live performances, music, workshops, talks and participatory experiences. Many projects invite visitors to engage directly with the works rather than simply observe them. The exhibition is organised around four thematic clusters: GROUNDS, exploring landscapes, ecology and material resources; SYSTEMS, examining technology, data and networks; TRACES, focusing on memory, heritage and history; and BODIES, investigating identity, perception and human interaction. Taking place across multiple venues in Nicosia’s Old City, WIP transforms cultural spaces and public areas into places for experimentation, discovery and exchange. It is an opportunity to experience contemporary art from a fresh perspective, encounter innovative ideas and explore the connections between creativity, technology and everyday life. The festival opens on 16 October with an evening of exhibitions, artistic performances, live music, DJ sets and food from Fork Food Market. Highlights - 50+ artworks and projects: Explore contemporary art, experimental design and technology-driven creations. - 60+ international artists: Discover work by artists and creative practitioners from Cyprus and abroad. - Interactive installations: Experience projects that invite participation and explore the boundaries between physical and digital environments. - Four thematic clusters: Discover GROUNDS, SYSTEMS, TRACES and BODIES, each offering a different perspective on the theme of FLOWS. - Live performances and music: Enjoy dance, experimental performances, live sets and DJ sessions. - Workshops and talks: Engage with artists, researchers and creative practitioners through discussions and participatory activities. - Opening Night: Celebrate the festival launch with exhibitions, performances, live music and food. - Explore Nicosia Old City: Visit different festival locations while discovering the city’s historic centre. Important Information WIP Festival takes place across several locations rather than at a single venue. Individual activities have different times and locations, so check the official programme before visiting. The Opening Night programme on 16 October runs from 18:30 until midnight, while the exhibition is scheduled to close at 22:00 that evening. Admission to exhibitions and performances is free. Some activities may have specific participation requirements or limited capacity, so consult the event details for individual workshops and performances. Official programme and schedule: https://2026wip.cyens.org.cy/