Four-Legged City, an initiative that invites us to rethink the possibilities of coexisting with animals through art, is organizing a two-day event featuring 21 artists. With exhibitions, performances, workshops, and gatherings focused on solidarity with street animals, the program brings ethical and aesthetic questions surrounding our relationships with non-human beings into focus.
At the heart of Istanbul, the terraces and studios of the Istanbul Textile Traders’ Market will host artists reflecting on and producing work about coexistence with animals. Responding to Four-Legged City’s call, 21 artists will come together on May 30–31 to explore and make visible the possibilities of living alongside animals through the transformative power of art.
Here, artistic production becomes intertwined with the struggle for street animals’ right to live. The comprehensive program includes exhibitions, performances, workshops, and solidarity-based initiatives. As part of the “Keep Your Companion Alive” campaign, the event also provides opportunities to meet dogs in need of homes or facing the threat of displacement. With this event, Four-Legged City aims not only to raise awareness about animal rights through art but also to establish lasting support mechanisms.
Exhibitions and Performances for Street Animals
One of the highlights of the event is the exhibition featuring original works by 21 artists. Figures such as Burçak Bingöl, Füsun Onur, İnci Eviner, Gözde İlkin, Güçlü Öztekin, Güneş Terkol, Halil Yavuz Ertürk, Nancy Atakan, and Seçil Erel—representing various generations and disciplines—will present thought-provoking pieces that examine our relationships with animals. The exhibition is not only a visual experience but also an invitation to rethink our ethical, aesthetic, and spatial connections with non-human lives.
The performance program is equally compelling. On May 30 at 6:30 PM, Iris Ergül’s performance Animal Court will offer an ironic critique of human-centered justice systems, aiming to give voice to animals. Artist Yıldız Güner will host a mask-making workshop on both days, providing participants a creative space for expression. Participation is free but requires registration.
Art and Animal Rights Advocacy Go Hand in Hand
Supported by the European Union’s “Sivil Düşün” program, this event creates space not only for artistic production but also for rights-based advocacy. Four-Legged City promotes the view that animals should not be seen as threats in urban settings but as part of a shared existence. The initiative continues its work through scientific research, public awareness projects, and creative collaborations.
Four-Legged City defines its mission around the principle of “coexistence based on care,” developing inclusive solutions to ensure that animals live safe, healthy, and dignified lives—not only during times of crisis but in everyday life as well. This two-day event stands out as a significant step toward informing the public and building a network of solidarity.
Event Details:
Date: May 30–31, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Place: Istanbul Textile Traders’ Market (İMÇ) Blocks 5533–5554–6531
Program Highlights:
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Exhibition: Original works by 21 artists
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Performance: Animal Court by Iris Ergül (May 30, 6:30 PM / Studio 5554 Terrace)
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Workshop: Mask-making with Yıldız Güner (May 30–31, 4:00–7:00 PM / Studio 5554)
