Spaces of Culture

‘Spaces of Culture’ provides spaces and resources for the realization of cultural projects within the visual and performing arts, as well as for discussion, training and development opportunities for local institutions, cultural professionals and community members interested in these fields. Together with partners from the Turkish and European cultural scene, this project contributes to a wide and diverse program of arts-based community exchange in the regions it covers.

Creative endeavors between Europe and Turkey tend to center on the attractive art hubs of Istanbul and Ankara. ‘Spaces of Culture’ sets out to promote and support activities beyond these metropolises. Working with Turkish artists and affiliated community actors, as well as wider civil society, the project shines a refreshing and vital spotlight on İzmir, Diyarbakir, Gaziantep and their neighbouring cities. In times of social tension, it is essential to foster opportunities to come together in the context of the richness of culture and the shared experience of art. This outlook facilitates the meetings of and interaction between people of widely varying backgrounds.

With the aim of supporting vibrant civil society in these regions, ‘Spaces of Culture’ prioritizes initiatives whose goal is to establish sustainable programs that value diversity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange.

The project is initiated by Goethe-Institut, the Consulate General of Sweden in Istanbul, the Embassy of the Netherlands and the Institut francais de Turquie; in cooperation with Anadolu Kültür and Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV).