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Istanbul Museum of Modern Art has been honored with the Portimao Museum Prize for Hospitality, Inclusion and Belonging at the 2025 European Museum of the Year Awards (EMYA). The announcement came at the EMYA Annual Conference held from May 21–25 in Bialystok, Poland, hosted by the Sybir Memorial Museum.
The EMYA jury praised Istanbul Modern for its strong commitment to social responsibility, inclusion, sustainability, intercultural dialogue, and democratic values, recognizing it as one of the standout museums of the year in Europe.
Founded in 2004, Istanbul Museum of Modern Art is Türkiye's first museum of modern and contemporary art, offering a diverse collection alongside exhibitions and educational programs. The institution has long aimed to make art accessible to all segments of society, a goal that played a key role in this year’s award decision.
This is not the museum’s first recognition by EMYA. In 2009, the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art also received the Special Commendation Award, further reinforcing its reputation in the European cultural landscape.
Speaking after the award ceremony, Oya Eczacibasi, chair of the Istanbul Modern Board of Directors, reflected on the museum’s ongoing mission: "Since our foundation in 2004, we have been working to bring art closer to the public. This new recognition by EMYA reflects the importance we place on social responsibility and cultural dialogue. Every award we receive not only honors our efforts but also deepens our responsibility to expand the reach of art."
With this latest accolade, Istanbul Modern joins an elite group of past EMYA winners including:
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