James Baldwin, one of the most influential voices of the 20th century, known for his fearless exploration of race, identity, and sexuality, found an unexpected sanctuary far from home. The Brooklyn Public Library’s exhibition, Turkey Saved My Life—Baldwin in Istanbul, 1961–1971, casts a spotlight on this transformative chapter in the writer’s life. Through evocative photographs by his close friend Sedat Pakay, visitors are offered an intimate glimpse into Baldwin’s decade-long sojourn in Turkey—a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and resilience.
A Writer in Exile
In 1961, Baldwin sought refuge from the suffocating racial and social injustices of the United States. “I can’t breathe,” he confided to Zeynep Oral, his assistant and confidante. Istanbul, with its cultural eclecticism and relative freedoms, provided the vantage point he desperately needed. “Turkey saved my life,” Baldwin later declared, underscoring the profound impact of his time abroad.
At the height of the civil rights movement, Baldwin’s life as a Black, gay man in America was fraught with tension. In Turkey, he found solace in a society straddling Europe and Asia, a crossroads of identities that mirrored his own. Istanbul offered him both anonymity and inspiration, allowing him to reflect on America’s struggles from a critical distance.
Captured Moments: Baldwin Through the Lens of Sedat Pakay
Sedat Pakay, an engineering student turned photographer-filmmaker, first met Baldwin through a mutual friend. Their bond blossomed into a friendship that transcended cultural and generational divides. Pakay’s photographs—many of which are on display at the Brooklyn Public Library—reveal Baldwin’s lighter, more personal side: sharing tea with locals, admiring Istanbul’s architectural splendor, or simply enjoying the city’s vibrant streets.
“Sedat’s lens captured Baldwin in moments of intimacy, vulnerability, and joy,” said Ateş M. Gündoğdu, co-curator of the exhibition. These images not only document Baldwin’s daily life but also highlight his deep connections with Turkish friends and collaborators, including actors Engin Cezzar and Gürliz Sururi.
A Decade of Creativity and Connection
Turkey wasn’t just a refuge for Baldwin; it was a crucible of creativity. During his time there, he completed seminal works like Another Country (1962), The Fire Next Time (1963), and Blues for Mister Charlie (1964). Baldwin’s collaborations with Turkish artists extended to directing a play on the nation’s prison system and supporting productions like Hair. His Istanbul home became a cultural hub, hosting luminaries such as Don Cherry, Marlon Brando, and Alex Haley.
Challenges in Paradise
Yet, Baldwin’s time in Turkey wasn’t without its difficulties. Nicknamed “Arap Jimmy,” he faced racial and sexual prejudice even in his adopted city. A brutal attack during a coastal visit underscored the persistent threats of homophobia and racism. Additionally, Baldwin’s empathy for the marginalized extended to Turkey’s own social struggles, including the repression of Kurdish rights, which deeply troubled him.
A Legacy Beyond Borders
Turkey Saved My Life—Baldwin in Istanbul, 1961–1971 offers more than a historical account; it’s a testament to Baldwin’s ability to transcend borders—both geographical and cultural. The exhibition highlights the ways Turkey shaped Baldwin’s artistry and worldview, providing him with the clarity to critique injustice while embracing the richness of his multifaceted identity.
The exhibition is on view at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Grand Lobby through February 28, 2025, inviting visitors to rediscover Baldwin not just as an American icon but as a global citizen whose enduring legacy continues to inspire.
