Istanbul Biennial Ends Early as Curator Christine Tohmé Steps Down

The Eighteenth Istanbul Biennial has concluded prematurely due to the withdrawal of its curator, Christine Tohmé. Initially designed as a three-part exhibition titled “Three Legged Cat,” the Biennial officially launched its first chapter on September 20, 2023, and was set to run until November 23, 2023. The event was intended to span three years, culminating in an academic program in 2026 and a second exhibition in 2027.

Despite attracting approximately 600,000 visitors during its initial phase, the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) announced that further exhibitions would not proceed. The foundation stated that the decision was made following Tohmé’s resignation due to personal circumstances. Tohmé, who is also the founding director of the Beirut-based contemporary arts nonprofit Ashkal Alwan, was appointed curator under new regulations established by the IKSV.

Changes in Curatorial Selection Process

The IKSV implemented the revised curatorial selection process after a previous controversy where British art historian Iwona Blazwick was named curator despite the advisory board’s unanimous recommendation of Turkish-born curator Defne Ayas. Under the new guidelines, the advisory board can recommend three candidates, from which the IKSV must choose one.

At the time of her appointment, Tohmé expressed optimism that the extended duration of the Biennial would facilitate deeper engagement with the local art scene, fostering projects and collaborations around shared themes and community issues. Despite the early closure of this iteration, the IKSV confirmed that it would announce a new curator for the upcoming Nineteenth Istanbul Biennial, scheduled for 2027, next year.

This unexpected conclusion to the Biennial raises questions about the future direction of the event and its impact on the local arts community. The early end of this exhibition marks a significant shift in the cultural landscape of Istanbul, highlighting the challenges faced by curators in navigating personal and professional commitments within the dynamic art world.