Art Collections Come Together at Akaretler

Realized under Bilgili Sanat’s vision of “placing art at the heart of life,” Artweeks Istanbul’s “Collectors” edition continues to bring exceptional collections from Türkiye to wider audiences. Alongside the selection of Banu & Hakan Çarmıklı, the edition will feature the distinguished collections of Öner Kocabeyoğlu and Tansa Mermerci, who joined the project at the invitation of Hakan Çarmıklı. Shaped over many years, these collections will come together with art audiences free of charge at Akaretler Sıraevler from 16 September onwards.

A Public Art Experience in a Historic Setting

Akaretler Sıraevler, one of the strongest manifestations of Bilgili Holding’s vision to transform historic buildings into cultural spaces that preserve and enrich the city’s collective memory, continues to host the world of art collectors. With a commitment to integrating art into the city’s dynamics and making it more accessible, Bilgili Sanat shares the rich narratives of private collections with art audiences through its signature project, Artweeks Istanbul. This visionary approach makes a meaningful contribution to the circulation of art by bringing exceptional collections to wider audiences.

A Journey Through Cultural Memory Shaped by Collections

Building a collection goes beyond acquiring artworks; it means documenting the spirit of different periods, accompanying artists and their practices over the long term, and contributing to the formation of cultural heritage. Bringing together three distinct collecting perspectives, each with its own areas of focus despite their shared affinities, the exhibitions feature prominent figures from modern and contemporary art in Türkiye and internationally, bringing together works by artists from different generations.

Built around this in-depth approach, the exhibition offers visitors more than the opportunity to encounter artworks side by side. It provides an intimate insight into the collectors’ individual relationships with art, their intellectual pursuits, and the cultural memories they have shaped over the years. Each selection becomes a living narrative reflecting the conceptual depth of its collector, presented within the historic atmosphere of Akaretler.

A New Space for Interaction within the Art Ecosystem

Since its establishment, Artweeks Istanbul has sought to expand access to contemporary art in Türkiye and foster a sustainable environment for interaction among galleries, artists, and collectors. With its Collectors edition, the project places the practice of collecting at the center of its program.

Having supported independent artists and curatorial projects to date, the event makes the productive and transformative role of collectors within the art ecosystem more visible through this edition.