Istanbul's Art Scene Transforms Through Architecture and New Cultural Venues

Istanbul's vibrant contemporary art landscape is on the rise with the addition of new galleries and museums. On September 13, 2019, the Vehbi Koç Foundation inaugurated Arter in Dolapdere, a creation of Grimshaw Architects, showcasing a diverse exterior and expansive windows. Previously situated in a historic building on İstiklal Avenue, Arter now runs educational initiatives, while that location has transformed into Meşher, which will display a ceramics collection curated by Catherine Milner until December. During the Biennial, Yapı Kredi Kültür Sanat debuted with a sculpture by Ilhan Koman. Nur Koçak's exhibition is on view at Salt Beyoğlu until December. The Istanbul Modern museum, designed by Renzo Piano, is temporarily located in Beyoğlu, with plans for a 2021 opening. Additionally, the Museum of Painting and Sculpture will launch in spring 2020 at Antrepo 5, and Abdül Mecid Efendi Köşkü is currently showcasing "The child within me," featuring over 100 pieces by 60 artists.