Artistic exhibitions explore Istanbul's architectural and cultural memory

Two distinct artistic projects in Istanbul are exploring the city's historical and architectural identity through different mediums.

Ebru artist Hikmet Barutçugil has opened his exhibition, “Suyun Hafızasında İstanbul” (Istanbul in the Memory of Water), at the Gazi Osmanpaşa Mansion. The exhibition features 47 works that interpret Istanbul's historical and cultural fabric through the timeless language of ebru (marbling art). Barutçugil, known for his unique “Barut Ebrusu” technique, uses color and movement on water to reflect the city's changing urban texture. The exhibition will remain open to visitors for five weeks.

In a musical approach to the city's heritage, pianist and composer Büşra Kayıkçı has introduced the “Beyond Walls-Istanbul” project. Drawing on her background in architecture, Kayıkçı translates the atmosphere and sounds of iconic structures into music. The project includes five original compositions inspired by sites such as the Sirkeci Post Office, the Grand Bazaar, and SALT Galata. The works combine acoustic piano with electronic textures and field recordings to capture the unique sonic character of these historical spaces.