Art in Istanbul remained for long isolated, and a matter for insiders; however, a vivid and complex, but fragmented and controversial art scene has been emerging recently. A good indicator is the Biennale: Istanbul was one of the first cities to introduce one in recent times (1987), which obviously helped to increase local public interest as well to internationalize the practice. The "low budget- fresh spirit" art scene in a contested city triggered status driven engagement in art. Both independent art practices of the younger generation as well as prestige investments into new art spaces became a significant drive for urban change.

Why not spend some time on guided strolls with our friends, insiders of the scene, through ateliers, independent spaces and galleries, for contacts to artists, gallerists, collectors and curators ?