Every month architects and industry insiders share their recommendations for the best exhibitions and events to visit in Istanbul. Views expressed on this page are those of the author, and may not reflect those of the editors of the Architecture Diaries.
THIS MONTH:
Ipek M. Sur
Curator/Creative Producer/Cultural Diplomacy Advisor
Ipek M. Sur is an independent curator, cultural diplomacy advisor, and creative producer based between Istanbul and Amsterdam. She began her artistic journey studying photography at Marmara Faculty of Arts and the Royal Academy of Arts, later specializing in curatorial studies at Leiden University and the MR. Miyagi program. She is recognized for her interdisciplinary projects that merge art, design, and collaborative dialogue, working internationally to challenge conventional boundaries and foster community-driven discussions. Her projects often address complex social issues through participatory art. Beyond curation, Ipek focuses on creating cultural bridges through creative collaboration, with a current emphasis on the potential of art to catalyze ‘Collective Healing.’
X: SurIpek
Linkedin: İpek. M. Sür
Instagram: ipek_m_sur
October; Great to tell a story
Every time I return to Istanbul, my first source of insight into what’s been happening is the taxi driver. The conversation always starts the same: “I haven’t been in Turkey for a few months—what’s been going on?” At first, they seem hesitant, but before long, I’m given a personalized account of the city’s latest happenings. Occasionally, the conversation drifts into deeper, more personal realms—stories of past loves, regrets, and longings. Sharing stories is second nature to Istanbulians, and before you know it, you’re captivated by one.
This act of sharing and connecting through stories is at the heart of my work. As the city transitions from summer’s heat to autumn’s coolness, I’m especially eager to return to Istanbul. After six years of working as Senior Policy Officer for Culture and Public Diplomacy for the Dutch government, I’m coming back for a project that truly excites me—one that is close to my heart.
I’m one of the curators for this year’s *Sinopale*, the international Sinop Biennale. Under the overarching theme *Before All Runs Out: Cosmos of New Values*, my curatorial project, *Circular Narratives – Re-Discovering Collective Ethos*, focuses on cultural heritage, memory, and ecology. I’m looking forward to working with artists like Suat Ogut, Ali Ibrahim Ocal, Ozgur Demirci, Banu Ugural, and Can Bora to explore these themes in Sinop, a city with rich historical layers. From October 11 to 30, we will create a platform for dialogues, narratives, and new ways of understanding collective memory and healing.
Beyond the Biennale, I’m excited to immerse myself in Istanbul’s vibrant art scene. Here are a few of my must-visit exhibitions for the upcoming season:
Solo Botter: Komet exhibition at the Casa Botter, Istanbul
A visit to the iconic Botter House, an Art Nouveau gem in Istanbul, is a journey through history and design. This building was in no where to be visited when I first started working in Istanbul. I remember the first time I visited the office of Mr. Mahir Polat, director İBB Miras, and seeking his advice on this iconic structure. Little did I know just a year after there we were at the opening of this gorgeous space. Once the residence of Dutch fashion designer Jean Botter, this architectural marvel now hosts a stunning exhibition of Komet. The contrast between preserving its historical essence and integrating contemporary design is something that must be experienced firsthand.
Chiharu Shiota’s Between Worlds exhibition at Istanbul Modern is definitely on my list. Of course on a personal note I am thrilled to hear about the new director of the museum Celenk Bafra as well. Looking forward to what will be on the menu in the up coming years.
One of the highlights of the fall art calendar, Contemporary Istanbul, showcases a wide range of contemporary art from Turkey and beyond. This October, the event promises to bring together leading galleries, collectors, and artists, making it an unmissable opportunity for anyone passionate about the intersections of local and international art scenes.
And of course Sinopale 9: Before All Runs Out: Cosmos of New Values
As the summer heat fades and autumn’s chill sets in, these events offer a perfect opportunity to engage with Istanbul’s cultural depth. The city, with its blend of history and modernity, provides a unique canvas for exploring the intersection of architecture, art, and storytelling. And of course if you have the time please do come and visit Sinop to explore the city with the rays of exhibitions from Sinop Biennale.
Last but not least, as we celebrate World Architecture Day, I’m looking forward to the public program at Salt for Architecture Week. It feels especially meaningful to share these experiences, as I’m surrounded by architects—including my sister Petek Sur and friends—who constantly inspire me. Whether through architecture, art, or personal conversations, storytelling remains central to how we connect with each other and with the city.
