Süleyman Saim Tekcan, Turkish printmaking pioneer, dies at 86

Süleyman Saim Tekcan, a prominent figure in Turkish printmaking, painting, and cinema, has passed away at the age of 86. His family announced his death via social media, noting his lifelong dedication to art, education, and cultural heritage.

Born in Trabzon in 1940, Tekcan was a pioneer of original printmaking in Turkey. He developed the ‘Tekcan technique’ for wet printing, which gained international recognition. His work often blended traditional motifs, such as calligraphy and Seljuk and Ottoman patterns, with contemporary styles, frequently featuring horse figures.

Beyond his artistic production, Tekcan was a significant educator and institution builder. He founded the Istanbul Museum of Graphic Arts (IMOGA) in 2004 and played key roles in establishing fine arts faculties at various universities. In 2022, he was honored with the Presidential Culture and Arts Grand Award.

His funeral service was scheduled to take place at the Marmara University Faculty of Theology Mosque, followed by burial at the Mahmut Şevket Paşa Family Cemetery.