SANATORIUM presents "What inspires the artists for their ideas?", a group exhibition curated by Necmi Sönmez, running from November 7 through December 20, 2025. Featuring works by Jan Albers, Rey Akdogan, Burak Bedenlier, Irmak Canevi, Andy Fabo, Claus Föttinger, Kavachi, Simin Keramati, Mirjam Kuitenbrouwer, JiSun Lee, Yağız Özgen, Ursula Schulz-Dornburg and Jaan Toomik, the exhibition explores the conditions and influences that shape artistic production.
Bringing together artists working across diverse geographies, the exhibition sheds light on the often-overlooked "formation processes" behind artistic creation. The show features 13 artists working across painting, sculpture, installation, and drawing, with several participants presenting their work in Istanbul for the first time.
Contemporary economic, political, and social realities provide a critical framework for artistic production. The concepts artists develop in their studios and living spaces reveal not only their creative practice but also their responses to a constantly shifting world. Through works informed by cultural identity, belonging, and political positioning, the exhibition examines the multifaceted nature of artistic production.
Rather than focusing on technical or material similarities, "What inspires the artists for their ideas?" emphasizes conceptual and visual connections among artists from different continents and artistic traditions, offering viewers insight into the pluralistic nature of contemporary art.
Opening Reception: Friday, November 7, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: Emekyemez Mahallesi, Abdussalah Sokak, No:3, 34421 Beyoğlu