Istanbul is a bustling metropolis that bridges Asia and Europe and has witnessed the rise and fall of many great empires, who all left their mark on the city. Like London, Paris or Rome, Istanbul is one of the worlds most historically rich cities, full of architecture and cultural delights. But aside from the religious and traditional charms, Istanbul’s contemporary art scene is making waves, and away from the mainstream tourist crowds, the city is a hotspot of artistic energy.

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Istanbul’s contemporary art scene

Since the 1980s, Türkiye’s contemporary art scene has gained momentum. There are now many wonderful galleries throughout the city showcasing local and international works, and as a result, local artists can gain the recognition and representation they deserve.

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Contemporary Istanbul is one of Türkiye’s most well-known platforms for local contemporary and modern artists across most mediums. It is an annual event that highlights cutting-edge and established talent from Türkiye and abroad, and it attracts art lovers from across the globe. The event and its supporting trade and art fairs support Turkish artists and spotlight emerging talent. If your itinerary coincides with Contemporary Istanbul, or anyone onboard has a passion for modern art, let 360 Yachting organise a visit to the show or a tailored tour of the best contemporary art galleries.

Where to view contemporary art in Istanbul

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The popular artisan district of Beyoglu is widely considered the centre of Istanbul’s contemporary art scene. It is home to Istanbul Modern, Türkiye’s first contemporary art museum that hosts many wonderful works, plus several notable private galleries showcasing a wide range of emerging, mid-range and well known local and international artists.

Contemporary art galleries in Beyoglu

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Anna Laudel gallery holds regular exhibitions spotlighting emerging young local and international artists from her gallery and via a program of global shows and art fairs. This large gallery stretches over five floors in a historic building in Karakoy, Beyoglu. Regular exhibitions, workshops and art discussions are also held at the site.

p/c artSumer, Istanbul.

.artSumer is a small, well-known gallery representing several local and international artists. It showcases a wide range of work from paintings to sculpture and photography.

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Art On Istanbul is another notable gallery that opened in 2011. It runs several programs showcasing multi-disciplinary mediums and a fabulous range of artwork.

p/c Galeri Nev Istanbul

Galeri Nev Istanbul lies at the forefront of the Turkish contemporary art scene and is one of the country’s most well-established galleries. Since 1987, Galeri Nev has launched the careers of many of Türkiye’s most notable contemporary artists and continues to highlight the very best in groundbreaking local talent.

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Galerist has been representing contemporary Turkish artists since 2001, in addition to shining a spotlight on international talent. Their publication, Art Unlimited, is now one of the countries leading art magazines.

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x-ist moved to Karakoy, Beyoglu, from their site in Nisantasi, where they had been for over 14 years. A notable gallery on the art scene that often collaborates with other like-minded galleries, x-ist supports and mentors new talent and has helped launch many successful careers.

p/c Zilberman Gallery

Zilberman Gallery has galleries in Istanbul and Berlin and holds around 12 exhibitions a year. Their Istanbul gallery is located over two floors of Misir Apartment, one of the best examples of art nouveau architecture in the city. Their shows are always popular and attract global interest, especially their end of year show titled “Young. Fresh. Different,” which focuses on a range of pieces submitted by open-call and selected for the show by an independent jury.

Other notable art galleries in Istanbul

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Oktem Aykut Gallery in Istanbul’s Galata focuses on showcasing the best up-and-coming contemporary Turkish artists. Founded in 2014, they have helped many young artists come to the surface and helped launch several blossoming careers.

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Arter opened in 2019 and is one of the cities premier haunts for modern art lovers. The 18,000 square foot art centre is home to many works, including local and international artists like Alicja Kwade and Sophie Calle.

Contemporary galleries along the Turkish coast

p/c Mandarin Oriental Bodrum

Murat Pilevneli is a name at the forefront of the Turkish contemporary art scene, his gallery currently hosts Refik Anadol’s acclaimed exhibition “Memories of Machinery: Space,” attracting more than 30,000 people. Pilevneli has recently opened gallery spaces at Bodrum Mandarin Oriental and also Six Senses Kaplankaya making contemporary art far more accessible to those cruising the coast. Pilevneli represents the best in local and international talent, so if you are in town and fancy paying a visit, CONTACT US.

Spend a few hours viewing modern art.

360 Yachting specialise in bespoke tours and excursions. If you would like us to arrange a privately guided tour of the many fabulous galleries in Istanbul or along the coast, please CONTACT US.