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The international contemporary art fair Contemporary Istanbul is preparing to celebrate its 20th edition from Sept. 24 to 28 at Tersane Istanbul, a cultural complex on the shores of the Golden Horn in Istanbul. The fair will begin with a preview on Sept. 24 and bring together galleries from 16 countries, featuring 931 artworks by 579 artists.
At the press meeting held at Soho House Istanbul, organizers reflected on the fair’s growth and impact. Ali Gureli, founder and chairman of Contemporary Istanbul, expressed pride in reaching the 20-year milestone, noting that the fair has welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors, hosted over 10,000 artists, and collaborated with more than 1,600 galleries over the years. He described the event as more than just a fair, emphasizing its role as a cultural platform, a space for dialogue, and a dynamic art ecosystem.
Rabia Bakici Gureli, vice chairperson of Contemporary Istanbul, outlined new projects and events, highlighting both Turkish and international participants. Beril Alakoc, Akbank’s Brand and Communications President, underlined the fair’s long-standing role as a major meeting point for contemporary art and a source of inspiration that bridges diverse cultures.
For its anniversary year, the fair is enhancing both its content and accessibility. The newly launched Contemporary Istanbul Mobile App will guide visitors through transport options, including public transit, sea connections, and shuttle services provided during the fair.
A key highlight of the edition is the Focus America program, which brings attention to the contemporary art scene in the United States. Participating galleries include Amanita, Revolver Galeria, Pontone / Friedrichs Pontone, Leila Heller Gallery, and Heft Gallery.
Peruvian-American artist Grimanesa Amoros will present a site-specific light installation titled Passage & Maritime at The Peninsula Istanbul Hotel, as part of the fair’s special projects.
The Contemporary Istanbul Foundation (CIF) will host CIF Dialogues 2025 on Sept. 24–25 under the theme "Dispersing Coordinates: Istanbul and the Changing Art Map." Panels at The Pavilion in Tersane Hall B will explore the next 20 years of contemporary art, focusing on institutions, artists, and production methods.
Akbank Sanat will present the world premiere of a selection of oil paintings by Jannis Kounellis, curated by Hasan Bulent Kahraman. Another highlight is the display of two iconic cars from the BMW Art Car Collection, marking its 50th anniversary and appearing in Türkiye for the first time together.
Tersane Istanbul will also feature four large-scale site-specific installations, designed to connect the city’s historic landscape with contemporary creativity.
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