“From Past to Present: Firmans and Mystical Projections” Exhibition Opens at IGU

As part of the Cultural and Art Events organized by Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) Art and Design Application and Research Center (SATMER), the exhibition titled “From Past to Present: Firmans and Mystical Projections” by Prof. Erol Kılıç, faculty member at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University, Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, was opened to art enthusiasts.

The opening ceremony was attended by IGU Rector Prof. Bahri Şahin, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts Prof. Şükran Güzin Ilıcak Aydınalp, faculty members, students, and art lovers. The exhibition was curated by Prof. İsmet Çavuşoğlu, faculty member of the IGU Faculty of Fine Arts.

“Art is the Essence of Life”

Speaking at the opening, Rector Prof. Bahri Şahin emphasized the importance of art for individuals and society, stating:

“As Istanbul Gelisim University, we prioritize art because life itself is an art — and so is the human being. It is impossible to imagine life without art. Therefore, I sincerely congratulate our artist professors, who are the carriers of civilization, and I am delighted to host this exhibition.”

Curator Prof. İsmet Çavuşoğlu provided information about the artist and the exhibition, noting that Prof. Erol Kılıç had previously served as a faculty member at Istanbul Gelisim University and had made significant contributions to the development of SATMER.

“The Importance of Connecting with Our Cultural Codes”

Speaking about the exhibition, artist Prof. Erol Kılıç expressed his pleasure at opening another exhibition at Istanbul Gelisim University and shared a message with students:

“I am very happy to open an exhibition once again at Istanbul Gelisim University, where I used to work. I have a few messages for our dear young people: Art is something very important. Above all, try to be yourselves, to understand your own history and cultural codes. We were nourished by Western culture and received Western education. For me, the process of becoming myself was a struggle. Breaking away from the influence of Western culture and traditions and meeting creativity in art has been very valuable for me.”

A Contemporary Interpretation Inspired by Tradition

The exhibition “From Past to Present: Firmans and Mystical Projections” approaches the historical, aesthetic, and mystical dimensions of firmans through a contemporary lens. Drawing inspiration from traditional calligraphy and illumination arts, the works reference cultural memory and bridge the past and present through artistic expression.
The exhibition will remain open to visitors in the coming days.