By Janet Ekstract ISTANBUL – Contemporary Istanbul (CI), Turkiye’s premiere art exhibition is usually brimming with enough eclectic artwork to suit a variety of tastes but this year’s edition did not deliver as an adventurous spirit as previous editions. While there were a number of colorful artworks, only a very few pieces stood out from the multitude. Though this year, there were more curators and galleries from the U.S. – there was much less awe and a much more generic feel to the exhibition. Despite this reality, there were certain artworks that stood out from the majority. One standout piece was the famous Turkish- British artist Tracy Emin’s lithograph entitled Just Waiting as well as Slovenian-born artist Metka Vergnion’s colorful pink and red themed mural-style painting with people in various forms of walking mode. In addition, Shirin Neshat’s Fury Series: Flavia 2023, digital print with ink and acrylic, was a unique statement. And it was disappointing not to see the usual artwork from internationally known Turkish artist Bedri Baykam.
Meanwhile, New York’s Heft Gallery showcased a series of delectable and colorful tapestry while the most eye-catching sculpture was from Pedro Cera, Lisbon, Portugal that featured a series of sculptures in silver tone, of two male and two female figures with their dogs as if readying for a competition. For the 20th anniversary of CI, the Pavilion was designed to envision a place where social hub encounters, exchanges and new collaborations can take place throughout the fair. Designed with the contributions of partners and collaborations with artists, the space transforms into a stage for CIF Dialogues with an opportunity for art to be spoken about, debated and experienced. With a unique design that includes layered wall and ceilings woven with red fabric, it conjures remnants of the historical Tersane. CI’s 2025 edition partnered with Wangan in a collaboration that brings design and art into a shared dialogue. The collaboration is based on a simple premise that an art fair is more than a display of artwork but rather a space where encounters happen, ideas percolate and collaborations emerge. Beyond the CI fair, CI and Wangan are developing projects that extend beyond the fair to fashion experiences that connect viewers, artists and Istanbul in new and exciting ways.
