The seventh International Istanbul Children and Youth Art Biennial has commenced, showcasing 5,270 projects by approximately 5,250 children and young individuals, all revolving around the theme of “Hope” this year.
This biennial stands as one of the largest events celebrating children’s and youth art globally, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Education Ministry, the Culture and Tourism Ministry, the Istanbul Municipality, local municipalities, academic circles, and over 40 NGOs.
Various venues including the İstiklal Art Gallery, City Lines Ferries, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş Pier Square will serve as hosts for this inspiring event.
The opening ceremony, held on April 25 at the Beyoğlu Municipality İstiklal Art Gallery, was attended by Beyoğlu Mayor İnan Güney, NGO representatives, and art enthusiasts.
In his opening remarks, Mayor İnan Güney expressed pride in hosting the International Children and Youth Art Biennial for the seventh time in Beyoğlu, the heart of Istanbul. He emphasized the significance of art in Beyoğlu’s identity and pledged to foster an environment conducive to creativity and free expression. He encouraged the young participants to shape a productive, creative, and vibrant Beyoğlu, assuring them of support and encouragement from the community.
Güney also highlighted the commitment to overcoming obstacles hindering children and young people from engaging in cultural and artistic pursuits. He envisioned Beyoğlu as the focal point of art and culture through investment and collaboration.
Naci Selçuk, the biennial director, shared the vision of bringing together children’s artistic endeavors with the wider adult world. He announced the showcasing of nearly 5,250 projects by children, all centered around the theme of hope, across various stages set up in Beşiktaş MKM, Beyoğlu İstiklal Art Gallery, city ferries, Kadıköy, and Beşiktaş. The event will feature music and stage performances by the young participants.
Esra Özkan, the curator of this year’s biennial, elaborated on the theme of “Hope,” stating that the event embarked on a journey with children and young people to envision the near future. She emphasized the inclusion of various fields of science and art in this journey, aiming to address pressing global issues such as hunger, famine, ecology, sustainability, and wars, while nurturing hope for the future.
The seventh International Istanbul Children and Youth Art Biennial will run until May 23, offering a month-long showcase of the creative endeavors of children and young individuals.
