UPDATE: The Eighteenth Istanbul Biennial has been abruptly closed, two years ahead of schedule, following the resignation of its curator, Christine Tohmé. The highly anticipated event, which opened on September 20 and was set to span three years, officially concluded on November 23 as announced by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV).
This early termination comes despite a successful inaugural chapter, which attracted 600,000 visitors. The Biennial was originally envisioned by Tohmé as a tripartite exhibition titled “Three Legged Cat,” intended to promote deeper engagement with local communities and artistic collaborations.
The IKSV confirmed in an official statement that the remainder of the Biennial would not proceed due to Tohmé stepping down for personal reasons. This marks a significant shift in the event’s trajectory, which had aimed to include an academic program in 2026 and a second exhibition in 2027.
Tohmé, the founding director of the Beirut contemporary arts nonprofit Ashkal Alwan, was appointed under new regulations established by the IKSV. These rules came into effect after controversy surrounding the selection process for curators. Previously, the IKSV named British art historian Iwona Blazwick for the role despite unanimous recommendations for Turkish-born curator Defne Ayas.
The newly implemented guidelines allow the advisory board to recommend three candidates for the curator position, from which the IKSV must select one. Following Tohmé’s resignation, the IKSV has announced plans to reveal the curator for the Nineteenth Istanbul Biennial, scheduled for 2027, by next year.
This abrupt conclusion to the Biennial raises questions about the future of the event and its impact on the local art scene. As the art community reacts, many are left wondering how this change will affect ongoing projects and collaborations. The cultural landscape in Istanbul now faces uncertainty as officials prepare for the next steps.
Readers are encouraged to stay tuned for further developments regarding the Nineteenth Istanbul Biennial and the IKSV’s upcoming announcements.
