Culture and art agenda

Prepared by: Deniz Burak FLAG

ISTANBUL

• OPERA

Istanbul State Opera and Ballet is bringing Ahmet Adnan Saygun's masterpiece 'Gilgamesh' to the stage as part of the 16th International Istanbul Opera and Ballet Festival. Inspired by the stories of the immortal hero of ancient Mesopotamian mythology, the Sumerian King Gilgamesh, the work combines universal themes such as death, friendship, love and hostility with the powerful language of the opera. The world premiere of the work, composed and libretto by Ahmet Adnan Saygun, will take place on May 17 at 20:00 at the Türk Telekom Opera Hall.

• INTERVIEW

Every Thursday between 10:00 and 14:00, Istanbul Modern opens its museum doors free of charge to all visitors residing in Türkiye. This month's guest at the 'Your Thursday' Artist Meetings organized within this scope is Nezaket Ekici. The artist, who covers topics such as identity, religion, art history, architecture and tradition in her works, will hold her talk titled 'Artistic Nomad', which will focus on her production process, on May 15 at Istanbul Modern.

• EXHIBITION

Nuri Kuzucan's 'All Parts of a Painting' exhibition will be at Galerist until June 21st. The exhibition creates works that go beyond being mere surfaces on the walls, respecting the historical memory and existence of the space. Freeing the viewer from a fixed perspective, the exhibition emphasizes the dynamic structure of the space and the constant transformation of perception.

• FESTIVAL

One of the most creative and sustainable events in Istanbul, the 'Upcycle Istanbul Art & Design Festival ' will open its doors for the 4th time at the Museum Gazhane between May 15-18. Organized with the theme of 'Are You Ready to Start Transforming Yourself?', the festival invites participants to both environmental and personal transformation by bringing together art, design and sustainable life.