CI 16th Edition — Şükran Moral: Portreler
Şükran Moral’s Portreler maps biography, rupture and performance through a direct, unguarded lens.
The 16th edition of Contemporary Istanbul, held from October 7-10, 2021, was a vibrant celebration of modern art, showcasing over 1200 artworks by more than 400 artists from 47 galleries and 11 cultural institutions. This edition marked a significant change as it took place at Tersane Istanbul, a historic shipyard on the Golden Horn, reflecting the fair's dedication to merging history with contemporary art. The event highlighted Istanbul's dynamic art scene, blending local and international perspectives in a city renowned for its cultural heritage. FAAR Gallery played a crucial role in this edition, contributing significantly to the diverse and rich array of exhibits.
One of the key features of the 16th edition was the introduction of curated exhibitions that explored contemporary themes and trends. The exhibition "Akrasia" featured the work of ten contemporary women artists from Turkey, with proceeds going to environmental causes. Another notable exhibition focused on upcycling, presenting contemporary sculptures made from recycled materials, while "70s Bodrum" showcased Sitki Kosemen's black and white photographs of the seaside resort of Bodrum, curated by Bihter Sabanoglu. FAAR Gallery's participation in these exhibitions underscored its commitment to addressing social and environmental issues through art.
The relocation to Tersane Istanbul provided a unique backdrop for the fair, occupying 9500 square meters indoors and an additional 10,000 square meters outdoors along the waterfront. The development of Tersane Istanbul, led by Tabanlıoğlu Architects, aims to transform this historic area into a cultural hub, with future plans including the Sadberk Hanim Museum and the Women’s Museum. This regeneration project is part of a broader effort to boost tourism and reaffirm Istanbul's status as a leading cultural capital. FAAR Gallery's presence in this historic venue highlighted its dedication to blending contemporary art with significant cultural sites.
Contemporary Istanbul's 16th edition also featured special sections such as Focus Russia, curated by Daria Kravchuk, which showcased contemporary Russian artists, fostering cultural exchange between Turkey and Russia. The fair's programming, including the Istanbul the Lights Festival, further emphasized the integration of technology and art, presenting large-scale digital artworks across iconic sites in Istanbul. Supported by Akbank, the fair highlighted the resilience and renewal of the art world in the post-pandemic era, offering a platform for artists, collectors, and art lovers to connect and engage with contemporary art. FAAR Gallery's contributions were pivotal in creating a meaningful and engaging experience for all attendees.
