Çelenk Bafra Appointed Artistic Director of Istanbul Modern

Çelenk Bafra has been named the new Artistic Director of Istanbul Modern, taking over from Levent Çalıkoğlu, who left in September following the inauguration of the museum's new building designed by Renzo Piano. The specifics surrounding Çalıkoğlu's departure are not publicly known, although Milliyet suggests it was linked to disputes regarding acquisitions. Bafra's previous experience includes serving as curator and exhibitions director at Istanbul Modern from 2011 to 2018, followed by her role leading SAHA – Supporting Contemporary Art from Turkey and SAHA Studio. From 2001 to 2010, she was the director of the Istanbul Biennial and the artistic coordinator for international initiatives at the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV). In her new position, Bafra will manage art programs, collections, and curatorial practices, emphasizing the growth of international collaborations and projects.