Xanthos Hatzisotireiou, born on the 1st of January 1920, in Famagusta, was an accomplished painter known for his profound connection to traditional Cyprus and its people. Having completed his education at the Greek High School of Famagosta and pursued studies in business at the American University of Beirut, Hatzisotireiou embarked upon an artistic journey. Between 1951 and 1953, he honed his skills in painting and decoration at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London and subsequently attended the Byam Shaw School of Painting in the same city. It was during his tenure in London that he held his inaugural solo exhibition in 1959.

Up until the summer of 1974, Hatzisotireiou resided and worked in what he referred to as his ‘house and studio,’ situated along the sandy shores of Famagusta. Tragically, with the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, he was forced to relocate to Limassol, leaving behind several works in his former residence. Throughout his career, he showcased his artwork in various solo exhibitions, including those held in London (1959), Nicosia (1962, 1985), Limassol (1989), and even at the Council of Europe building in Strasbourg (January 1990). This groundbreaking exhibition brought attention to the plight of Cyprus following the 1974 invasion and marked the first presentation by a Cypriot artist at the Council of Europe.

Hatzisotireiou participated in numerous group exhibitions across Cyprus, Greece, Egypt, France, England, and beyond. Among his notable achievements, he earned a bronze medal at the 3rd Salon de Peinture in Vernoux, France, a gold medal at the 85th Salon de Peinture de la Société Nationale d’ Horticulture de France in Paris, the E. Dailly prize at the 4th Salon de Peinture in Vernoux, and an honorary distinction at the 5th Alexandria Biennale. Additionally, he lent his talents to the fields of interior decoration, designing spaces in hotels and other public areas across Cyprus.

Hatzisotireiou’s paintings reflected the essence of traditional Cyprus and its inhabitants, incorporating elements of Cypriot tragedy post-1974. Female figures, embodying strength, diligence, and stoicism amid adversity, often graced his canvases, revealing the silent wisdom of generations. The vibrant, traditionally Cypriot landscape served as a backdrop to these poignant narratives.

Xanthos Hatzisotireiou passed away on the 1st of May 2003. His contributions to the art scene continue to resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of admirers and critics alike.