Art gives voice to the voiceless and fame to the ignored. You can learn various forms of art from dancing to sketching in Istanbul. There are designated classes, drama workshops, and art events in Istanbul for the same. If you just want to be a mere spectator you can attend theatre events and art exhibitions in Istanbul too.
Ever wanted to volunteer in those nukkad, nataks or street shows? Wish to learn the basics of painting? Well, just explore through the art & theatre events in Istanbul.
Don't miss your favorite Arts Events again. We deliver best of the city happenings and handpicked content for you every week. Subscribe weekly email newsletter for Istanbul.
Over the years, Istanbul, the city of seven hills has become a significant place by sharing a major contribution to the country's economic, cultural and historical affluence. The art in Istanbul has the city’s tradition as its founding base but it is also largely influenced by the customs of both East and West. It has also been the historical site of the Ottoman Caliphate, which is the main reason for the number of mosques reflecting beautiful architectural heritage of the city. The city’s contribution to preserving cultural art forms and its dedication has accoladed it with the prestige of European Capital of Culture and achieving the fifth position as the world’s most popular tourist destination. These factors have contributed to the establishment of splendid art museums in Istanbul like the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, which is located in the Beyoğlu district of the city, known for featuring contemporary art forms of Turkey. On the other hand, historical art forms like the notable illustrations of Islamic calligraphy, tiles, and rugs as well as ethnographic displays on various cultures are shown at Islamic Arts Museum located in Sultanahmet Square, Fatih district of Istanbul.
Over the past, the city has been chosen for visiting an art gallery in Istanbul, which showcases a wide range of art forms with well-decorated reading spaces and all basic amenities that allows the visitors to efficiently explore the allure of art. One can find a gem at Teşvikiye Mahallesi Ferah Sokak called Soul'n Art, an impressively designed art gallery known for hosting a number of art exhibitions. The euphoria of art in Istanbul is also reflected in the SALT Galata art gallery that features a cafe with free Wifi connection and a library. This art gallery of Istanbul also finds its place among the esteemed L'Internationale, a confederation of the European art institution. Apart from the buildings, art in Istanbul is also reflected on the streets, and for the popularity of this genre, a big thanks to the success of the Mural Istanbul festival. This festival persuades the regional and international artists to feature their work onto the sides of buildings all over Kadıköy.
Art gallery in Istanbul and the museums are known for mainly displaying the successful works, but it is the Istanbul art fair, where emerging talents can unveil their notable works to the general public. A leading art fair, known as Contemporary Istanbul is a heaven for people and artists to exploit the potential of art altogether. Furthermore, the art shows and exhibitions also fill the atmosphere of the city by hosting unique works of both native and international artists. A renowned artist Ai Weiwei once organised his first solo show in Istanbul with a theme of porcelain that garnered appreciation from both public and critics.
