Istanbul Modern launches artist residency program

ISTANBUL

Artists from all over the world have been invited to participate in Istanbul Modern’s International Artist Residency Program, launched in 2019 with the support of the Istanbul Development Agency (ISTKA).

The program is the first of its kind to be organized by a museum in Turkey and will bring contemporary artists, architects and designers from around the world to Istanbul to collaborate with local artisans.

The participating artists include Faig Ahmed from Baku, Rana Begum from London, Benji Boyadgian from Jerusalem, Rodrigo Hernandez from Mexico City, Servet Koçyiğit from Amsterdam, Outi Pieski from Helsinki, Randi & Katrine from Copenhagen, Wael Shawky from Alexandria and Philadelphia, and Jorinde Voigt from Berlin.

The selected artists focus on the themes of craft and tradition in their production processes or work with different materials and techniques. They have also participated in international biennials and exhibitions and their works are featured in the collections of leading museums and art institutions worldwide.

Aside from creating opportunities for creative collaboration, the program aims to enhance the visibility of Istanbul’s innovative and creative potential.

Participating artists will spend a total of six weeks in Istanbul. During their stay, they will meet different artisans at their workshops in Istanbul and choose one to work with.

The works that they produce during the program will be exhibited at Istanbul Modern in 2020 and a catalogue accompanying the exhibition will provide a record of the project.

During the program, the museum will also hold workshops with the artists, as well as organize public programs and educational workshops in conjunction with the exhibition.