Artist Muriel Clutten ‘left the garden of life’
SOUTH African artist and longtime Kayalar resident Muriel Clutten passed away at her home on Thursday morning at the age of 85.
Daughter Janine said yesterday from the home she and husband Martin Ashworth shared with her mother: “She was a Cyprus legend and we share this news with the saddest of hearts. May she rest in peace.”
Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Mrs Clutten moved to Kayalar in 1990 with her late husband, John.
Mrs Ashworth said: “She was a loving mother of five children, caring granny to 14 grandchildren, and a lovable great-grandmother to her great-grandson.”
Well-known within the community as an exhibiting artist and thespian and an avid supporter of the arts and Cypriot culture, she had a wide multinational group of friends and fellow artists.
Local artists Nilgün Guney, Heidi Trautmann, Özgül Ezgin, Christine Venediger and Kadir Kaba were among those who voiced their sorrow and paid tribute to her talent.
Pianist, MP and local businessman Fikri Toros said: “I am deeply saddened . . . may she rest in peace.”
Mrs Trautmann said Mrs Clutten had “left the garden of life” and wrote on social media of her deep gratitude for happy and creative times together at the Thursday Art Group, and watercolour classes at the home of the late Cynthia Bratton.
Fellow artist Marilyn Bosworth described her as a “dear friend and a talented artist”.
Mrs Clutten also supported the Royal British Legion Kyrenia branch’s Poppy Ball with artwork created with her daughter and son-in-law.
Her funeral will be held at the GreenHill Cemetery, above Karaoğlanoğlu, at a date to be confirmed. Those wishing to attend may contact Mr Ashworth on 0533 830 0327 for details from tomorrow.