SALT Beyoğlu shuts down amid political pressure rumors in Istanbul

SALT Beyoğlu, a key contemporary art venue in Istanbul, ceased operations at the start of 2016. Director Vasif Kortun cited technical issues, noting unauthorized renovations to the 19th-century building, but German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung reported potential government pressure behind the closure. Under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey's conservative administration allegedly pushed for the shutdown. Kortun denied political motives, highlighting ongoing exhibitions at SALT Ulus and SALT Galata, yet voiced concerns over regional crackdowns on liberal arts centers, referencing Christine Tohme's passport confiscation. He expressed deep worry that worse outcomes might follow, as the institution's future remains uncertain.