Ibrahim Ince

Anthropology (2023 cohort)

Conducting ethnographic research in Cyprus half a decade after its internal conflict and division, I intend to explore the social and cultural activities within its border and no man’s land. These activities range from performing arts festivals to bike tours of a war-stricken ghost town. The no man’s land in Cyprus serves as a centre for culture, diverging from the traditional theorems of borders as territorial lines and margins. In pursuit of advancing anthropological frameworks of what constitutes borders and public spaces, this project will ask how margins can transform into vibrant cultural centres.

I am an anthropologist and cultural practitioner specialising in the exploration and facilitation of cultural experiences. I hold a degree in Fine Art and History of Art from the University of Leeds and a Master’s in Material Culture from UCL Anthropology. Consequently, I have used art practice and anthropology research to explore the stories and experiences of individuals and communities, especially in Cyprus. In my DPhil in Anthropology at the University of Oxford, I am continuing my research into the people, culture, and politics of Cyprus, with a persistent focus on its border.

Most recently, I was the Lead Curator for the heritage, fashion, and art exhibition, Revive, at the Cyprus High Commission in London. Notably, I was the Artist-in-Residence for CYENS Centre of Excellence and was the winner of the FUAM Art Prize and FUAM People’s Choice Award (2021).

Keywords: Cyprus, borders, no man’s land, ruins, dark tourism, public space, art & culture.