CI 11th Edition: Kentsel Dönüşüm ve Bellek
For Contemporary Istanbul’s 11th edition, FAAR presents an installation on urban change, memory and renewal.
The 11th edition of Contemporary Istanbul, held from November 3-6, 2016, was a dynamic celebration of modern art, showcasing the latest innovations and creativity from leading and emerging artists around the globe. Taking place at the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC) and Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICEC), this edition emphasized the strong local and international art scenes that have flourished in Istanbul. The fair brought together a diverse array of artworks, creating a vibrant and eclectic mix that reflected the city's unique cultural and geographical position. FAAR Gallery, known for its dedication to contemporary art, played a significant role in this edition, contributing to the rich tapestry of exhibits on display.
This edition featured several notable sections and programs. CI Design was introduced as a new section focusing on functional art and unique design pieces, coinciding with the Istanbul Design Biennial. Additionally, the Plugin section was dedicated to multimedia and digital art, featuring galleries, artists, design studios, and digital art collectives. CI Dialogues, curated by Dr. Marcus Graf, included conferences and panels that explored new approaches to contemporary art, fostering conversation and reflection among influential artists, writers, curators, and thinkers. FAAR Gallery's participation in these sections highlighted their commitment to integrating art with cutting-edge design and digital media.
Contemporary Istanbul 2016 also highlighted regional diversity by presenting works from galleries, artists, and collectors from the Caucasus, the Black Sea, the former Russian Federation, and the Middle East. This emphasis on regional art helped to position Istanbul as a central hub for contemporary art in the region, bringing together a wide range of artistic expressions and cultural perspectives. The fair occupied 14,000 square meters of exhibition space, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the dynamic contemporary art scene that has developed in Istanbul over the past decades. FAAR Gallery's contributions to this diverse showcase underscored their role in promoting both local and international contemporary artists.
In addition to showcasing art, Contemporary Istanbul 2016 aimed to address broader social and cultural issues through its exhibits and discussions. The fair provided a platform for critical reflection on the role of art in society and its potential to address contemporary challenges. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, Contemporary Istanbul continued to push the boundaries of what an art fair can achieve, making it not just a marketplace for art but also a space for intellectual and cultural exchange. FAAR Gallery's involvement in these discussions and exhibits further reinforced their dedication to fostering meaningful dialogue and cultural enrichment through contemporary art.
