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The “Sofia–Istanbul: Art Bridge” exhibition, featuring works by Turkish artists with connections to Bulgaria, has opened to the public in Sofia. Organized by the Union of Bulgarian Artists in cooperation with Enakor Auction House and the municipalities of Oborishte and Sredets, the exhibition brings together works by 24 painters and sculptors.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Sofia, Mehmet Sait Uyanik, noted that Sofia and Istanbul have historically maintained strong cultural interaction. “These two cities, with their historical and cultural richness, have long inspired art and artists.
This exhibition not only showcases the individual talents of our artists but also reflects the friendship between Türkiye and Bulgaria,” he said.
Also, Ambassador Uyanik emphasized the continued advancement of bilateral relations, stating, “Diplomacy, economy, tourism, trade, transportation, and, most importantly, our compatriots form the backbone of relations between Türkiye and Bulgaria, while cultural and artistic cooperation constitutes their shared spirit.”
One of the exhibition’s curators, Yuliya Varbanova, told Anadolu Agency that the project will be presented in Istanbul next year.
Varbanova underlined the message conveyed by the exhibition, saying, “Neither religion, political affiliation, nor nationality, but art is what unites people. In today’s complex world, art remains one of the strongest bridges between societies.”
Artist Sevket Sonmez, who participates with his double-sided works titled “Paravans,” stated that he employed a special reflective material in his pieces, creating a distinct visual effect when photographed with flash.
He noted that the free-standing screen-like works function both as three-dimensional objects and as paintings. “When viewers take photographs, the image that appears on their screens becomes part of the artwork,” he said.
The exhibition will remain open to visitors until Jan. 3.
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