Istanbul's LGBTQ Art Scene Faces Uncertain Future After Erdoğan's Reelection

Following Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's reelection in May 2023, Istanbul's LGBTQ art scene confronts a precarious future. The AK Party's anti-queer rhetoric and policies have intensified, with Pride marches banned and violence against queer communities rising. Major art institutions like Istanbul Modern, which opened a new Renzo Piano-designed building in May, have remained silent on LGBTQ rights, avoiding rainbow symbols or queer references. Independent spaces such as DEPO and Pera Museum have shown courage: DEPO hosted 'Resurgence in Fragments' during Pride Month, while Pera screened queer films. However, the attack on ArtIstanbul Feshane in June, where conservative activists shut down an exhibition featuring Taner Ceylan's 'Ingres', underscores the risks. Critics like Kültigin Kağan Akbulut predict a clampdown on LGBTQ organizations, while artist Marina Papazyan warns of 'cunning homophobia' and silent collaboration with the state. The future remains uncertain as Erdoğan's government targets queer communities.