Pupa

The Pantheon Cultural Association in association with CVAR (Centre of Visual Arts & Research), author Melissa Hekkers and illustrator Louza Kaimaki invite you to the book launch of book for youth entitled “Pupa” on Saturday 11th of October 2014, 5pm – 7pm to take place in the atrium of CVAR in Nicosia.

Pupa, a young and unique caterpillar is about to transform into a vibrant butterfly. She’s about to discover what it means to be able to fly and enjoy the world from above. Her adventurous nature takes her on a journey that makes her transformation even more meaningful. When she enters a circus in an unknown land, Pupa discovers the pleasures and importance of living life at its fullest, and savouring every moment of it.

The book is targeted to youth age 7 and above. It is available in Greek and English.

The Author
Pupa was written on the basis of an adventure, in this case a fantasy which looks into the meaning of time, accomplishment and drive, using a character which depicts gender connotations through animal-like characters. Throughout the book, the author has attempted to sustain a visual image of the story which implores the backdrops of the story as well as the situations faced by the leading character.

“Pupa” is Melissa Hekker’s third published children’s book. Her second children’s book was nominated for the State Literary Award in 2012 while her first children’s book “Crocodile” won the Cyprus State Illustration Award in 2008. She has also published a Free Verse Poetry Publication which was launched in 2013. Her books are distributed in Cyprus and Greece. Melissa Hekkers is a Journalist based in Nicosia, Cyprus.

The Illustration
Award winner Louiza Kaimaki presents seven illustrations that accommodate the story and which she has created with brushes and gouache, along with acrylics on paper.

In an attempt to respect the essence the author aspired to give to the reader, Kaimaki worked with patience and contemplation so as not to take away the magic of the literary work, but stimulate the reader’s imagination.

“Illustrating Pupa for me was a challenge! The charismatic writing and richness of Melissa’s text brought thousands of images to my mind. The text at times is complex and brings out deep thoughts about life and the real meaning of it, yet it is also playful and humorous. This is not easy to illustrate, and holds many secrets which I tried to evoke through my work. Pupa is no ordinary caterpillar. She has a human side yet she is not human, and isn’t an insect either. She has feelings and emotions, she thinks and contemplates about life. Drawing her took some time in order to finally find the character that suits her best.

The Launch/ Event
The launch will take place in the new premises of the CVAR, the home of the Costa & Rita Severis Foundation and its museum. After a brief reading of a segment of the book by the author, Kaimaki will present the authentic, live art works she created for the book.

Following the reading, children will have the opportunity to make origami butterflies with the author, and visit the museum. The entrance is free.

Publisher: Pantheon Cultural Association
Author: Melissa Hekkers
Illustration: Louiza Kaimaki
Design & Layout: Zara Der Arakelian
Proof reading & Editing: Katherine Pollard
Printer: Absolute Paper Ltd

For more information please feel free to contact the author, Melissa Hekkers on 99803832 or [email protected]. More information about Melissa Hekkers’ work can be found on www.melissahekkers.com, and Louiza Kaimaki’s work on www.louizakaimaki.com