Loft Art, a space opening its doors to independent artists, is preparing to welcome art enthusiasts at its venue in Istanbul, Beşiktaş Nisbetiye On, with its new exhibition “Özkan Arı Art Academy +18 Young,” consisting of works by university Fine Arts Faculty students.

 Until June 30th, visitors can explore the exhibition for free, where the concepts of “power definition” and “reproduction” are innovatively and provocatively depicted in the artworks of independent artists.

 With its mission to provide a platform for independent artists, Loft Art presents another significant exhibition that will spark discussions among art enthusiasts. Starting from Friday, May 3, 2024, visitors can explore the “Özkan Arı Art Academy +18 Young” exhibition at Loft Art’s Nisbetiye On venue, featuring works by university Fine Arts Faculty students reflecting the future of art. The exhibition, which can be visited free of charge until June 30, 2024, showcases works by 20 independent artists.

FROM POWER DEFINITION TO THE CONCEPT OF REPRODUCTION

The “Özkan Arı Art Academy +18 Young” exhibition tackles the concept of power from the perspective of independent artists. Inspired by the theories of thinkers like Jean Baudrillard and Michel Foucault, this exhibition becomes a platform for university students to discuss dynamics such as subject-object relations like male-female relationships, desire, and resistance. Baudrillard’s interpretation of “power’s residue is nothingness and void” is creatively and provocatively explored in the artworks of independent artists.

The theme of Walter Benjamin’s “reproduction” concept highlights the impact of technology on art and emphasizes the democratization of art. This theme is revisited in the artists’ works, showcasing how artworks can play a role in societal interaction. Independent artists aim to reach broader audiences by transcending traditional boundaries with their works.

A PLATFORM SUPPORTING INDEPENDENT ARTISTS

The “Özkan Arı Art Academy +18 Young” exhibition features works by 20 independent artists, including Abdullah Akburak, Bahar Başak Üstel Arı, Beyzanur Soyer, Bilgehan Bülbül, Burak Şimşek, Edanur Arslantay, Fatma Gökçe, Gülsüm Duman, Hayrullah Şengül, İpek Kılıç, Melih Kulaz, Özkan Arı, Rabia Tosun, Seda Eryılmaz, Selda Yurtsever, Selma Koç, Tuğçe Doğan, Tülay Ayaz, Zeynep Erdek, and Zeynep Karaboğa.

Loft Art, initiated under Akfen Holding’s social responsibility framework, aims to support independent artists and contribute to all disciplines of art. The “Özkan Arı Art Academy +18 Young” exhibition is a reflection of this vision and eagerly awaits to meet art enthusiasts. The proceeds from the sale of artworks exhibited contribute to the social responsibility projects of the Turkey Human Resources Education and Health Foundation (TİKAV), established by Akfen Holding.