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A weeklong workshop held at the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE) in Dakar is bringing the traditional Turkish art of ebru, also known as marbling, to the heart of Senegal. Led by ebru artist Eda Ozbekkangay, the workshop, which began on June 24, has attracted widespread interest from both local residents and members of the international community living in the Senegalese capital.
Participants in the workshop have the opportunity to experiment with ebru, a centuries-old Turkish art form that involves creating patterns by sprinkling and brushing color pigments on water, then transferring these designs onto paper or fabric. While the practice is new to most attendees, it has quickly gained popularity thanks to its visual appeal and meditative quality.
As part of the workshop, Ozbekkangay is also providing specialized training to three Senegalese participants who are being prepared to teach the technique themselves. This approach aims to build a sustainable bridge between Türkiye's cultural heritage and Senegal’s vibrant art scene.
Merve Isik Efe, the coordinator of Dakar YEE, highlighted the high level of enthusiasm shown by Senegalese participants. According to Efe, “Senegal is a country that places great value on visual and decorative arts, especially painting. Ebru is completely new to them, and they are fascinated by its uniqueness. As they learn more, they become even more captivated.”
Due to growing demand, the institute plans to extend the program by organizing a separate workshop specifically designed for children.
The workshop has also drawn attention from leading figures in Senegal’s arts and culture sector. Among the attendees was Sophie Zynga Sy, director general of the Agency for the Promotion and Development of Handicrafts, who took part in the sessions and created a marbled scarf. Visual artist Djibril Coulibaly also participated, merging the ebru technique with his own signature fingerprint method to produce a unique piece.
Efe noted that introducing Turkish art to Senegalese artists through direct participation is central to their cultural mission, especially when well-known local figures embrace it creatively.
The appeal of the ebru workshop has extended beyond Senegalese participants. Foreign residents in Dakar, including ambassadors and members of diplomatic circles, have also shown keen interest in experiencing the traditional Turkish art.
The workshop at Dakar YEE is set to continue until July 1.
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