Istanbul, September 2025 — This autumn, Contemporary Istanbul Turkey’s leading international art fair celebrates its 20th anniversary with a landmark edition at Tersane Istanbul, running 24–28 September 2025, with Akbank as its main partner.
Since its inception, the fair has become a cornerstone of Turkey’s cultural landscape and a dynamic meeting point for artists, collectors, and institutions worldwide. This year’s edition promises to be its most ambitious yet, reflecting two decades of growth, innovation, and global recognition.
Highlights of the 20th Anniversary Edition
✨ BMW Art Car Collection — For the first time in Turkey, visitors will experience two legendary models side by side: Alexander Calder’s groundbreaking design and Julie Mehretu’s latest creation, marking 50 years of the BMW Art Car legacy.
✨ International Collaborations — Partnerships with renowned institutions such as the UBS Digital Art Museum (Hamburg), Sigg Art Foundation (Le Castellet), and Barjeel Art Foundation (Sharjah) will underscore CI’s commitment to global dialogue.
✨ Focus America — This year’s curated section will spotlight the contemporary art scene in the United States, with a special emphasis on New York’s cultural influence. The program will include panels, exhibitions, and networking events featuring leaders from major US museums.
✨ CIF Dialogues: “Dispersing Coordinates” — CI’s annual conference returns with global art leaders like Jennifer Stockman (Guggenheim Museum), Anne Pasternak (Brooklyn Museum), and Ahu Antmen (Sakıp Sabancı Museum) exploring Istanbul’s evolving role in the shifting map of art.
A Celebration of Vision and Partnership
The 20th edition is made possible through the enduring support of Akbank, alongside key partners including BMW, Borusan Otomotiv, Turkish Airlines, Pernod Ricard Turkey, Tosyalı Holding, Trendyol, and The Marmara Group. With press support from the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), Contemporary Istanbul continues its mission of placing Istanbul firmly on the global art stage.
As the fair celebrates two decades of cultural impact, Contemporary Istanbul 2025 promises not just an art event, but a milestone celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the city’s vibrant role in the international art world.
📍 Preview: 24 September
📍 General Admission: 25–28 September
🌐 More info: www.contemporaryistanbul.com
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