The 2017 İstanbul Biennial: A Celebration of Artistic Resistance and Dialogue in Tumultuous Times

In the heart of Istanbul, a city that bridges continents and cultures, art often becomes a battlefield where ideas clash and perspectives collide. This inherent dynamism makes Istanbul an ideal stage for the biennial, an event that transcends mere exhibition and morphs into a potent platform for social commentary, political reflection, and artistic exploration. The 2017 İstanbul Biennial, curated by the renowned artist and thinker Defne Ayas, was no exception.

Held under the theme “The Seventh Continent,” this iteration of the biennial delved into pressing contemporary issues such as climate change, migration, and cultural displacement, reflecting the global anxieties swirling around us. Artists from across the globe, each grappling with their own experiences and interpretations, presented a multifaceted tapestry of works that resonated with the shared human condition.

One striking element of the 2017 biennial was its commitment to fostering dialogue and engagement beyond the conventional gallery setting. The exhibitions were dispersed across various locations within Istanbul, transforming public spaces like abandoned factories, historic buildings, and even the bustling Grand Bazaar into vibrant hubs for artistic exploration. This ambitious geographical spread encouraged visitors to actively engage with the artwork within its context, blurring the lines between art and everyday life.

A Crucible of Ideas: Exploring the Themes of the Seventh Continent

Defne Ayas’s curatorial vision aimed to create a “seventh continent,” an ethereal space where the physical boundaries of the known world dissolve, and artists could grapple with the interconnectedness of global challenges. This ambitious concept resonated throughout the biennial, encouraging viewers to reflect upon their own place within this intricate web of shared experiences.

The 2017 İstanbul Biennial: A Ripple Effect on Artistic Discourse

The reverberations of the 2017 İstanbul Biennial extended far beyond the closing dates. The event catalyzed critical discussions about art’s potential for social change and its role in amplifying marginalized voices. It fostered a sense of community among artists, curators, and audiences, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

Moreover, the biennial significantly impacted Istanbul’s cultural landscape, injecting fresh energy into the city’s vibrant art scene and attracting international attention. The event showcased the city as a dynamic hub for artistic innovation and intellectual discourse, further solidifying its position on the global map of contemporary art.

Selda Bağcan: A Voice of Resistance Embodied in Music

One artist whose presence at the 2017 İstanbul Biennial underscored its commitment to social commentary was Selda Bağcan. Considered a living legend in Turkish folk music, Bağcan’s powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics have resonated with generations, making her a symbol of resistance and cultural identity.

Born in 1948 in the Aegean region of Turkey, Bağcan began singing traditional folk songs at a young age. However, it was during the tumultuous political climate of the 1970s that her music took on a distinctly political edge. Inspired by leftist ideology and the struggles of the working class, she incorporated themes of social justice, equality, and Kurdish rights into her repertoire.

Her powerful voice and poignant lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, earning her widespread acclaim and also attracting the attention of the authorities. During the 1980 military coup in Turkey, Bağcan was imprisoned for her political activism, an experience that further solidified her commitment to social justice through music.

Even after her release from prison, Bağcan’s music continued to be a source of inspiration and defiance for marginalized communities in Turkey. Her songs are imbued with messages of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in a more just society.

Selda Bağcan at the 2017 İstanbul Biennial: A Catalyst for Cultural Reflection

Bağcan’s presence at the 2017 İstanbul Biennial marked a significant moment for both the artist and the event itself. Her performance, featuring renditions of her iconic songs alongside newer compositions reflecting contemporary social concerns, served as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to transcend boundaries and ignite social consciousness.

The biennial provided Bağcan with a platform to connect with a new generation of listeners, many of whom were unfamiliar with her legacy. Her performance sparked renewed interest in her music and reignited discussions about the importance of artistic expression as a tool for social change.

By inviting Selda Bağcan to participate in the 2017 İstanbul Biennial, Defne Ayas masterfully intertwined art and activism, creating a space where historical struggles met contemporary concerns. Bağcan’s presence served as a testament to the power of music to bridge generations and inspire hope for a more equitable future.

In conclusion, the 2017 İstanbul Biennial remains a landmark event in Turkey’s artistic landscape, showcasing the transformative potential of art to engage with pressing social issues and ignite meaningful conversations. The inclusion of Selda Bağcan, a true icon of resistance and cultural expression, further cemented the biennial’s commitment to highlighting voices often marginalized in mainstream discourse.

As we continue to grapple with complex global challenges, events like the 2017 İstanbul Biennial serve as powerful reminders of art’s ability to transcend boundaries, foster empathy, and inspire collective action for a more just and equitable world.