Istanbul's Artist Collectives and Institutions Respond to Urban Transformation and Gezi Park Protests

The protests in Istanbul's Gezi Park in 2013 emerged from concerns regarding urban transformation, highlighted by local artist groups. Founded in 1996, Hafriyat addresses urban displacement, featuring members such as Murat Akagündüz and Mustafa Pancar. Neriman Polat's artwork 'Mülk Allahındır' from 2007 critiques the Islamic bourgeoisie, while Nalan Yırtmaç's 2012 exhibition at X-Ist examined gentrification. Oda Projesi, which has been active since 2000, was displaced in 2005. Established in 2006, Atıl Kunst tackles social issues with digital stickers. KABA HAT encountered legal challenges in 2012. Ha Za Vu Zu presented 'Cut the Flow', and institutions like SALT held exhibitions focused on resistance. The 13th Istanbul Biennial, running from September 14 to November 10, 2013, faced protests concerning corporate sponsorship.