Turkish Islamic Arts Exhibition at YTB

The opening ceremony of the Turkish Islamic Arts Exhibition titled “We Are the Future with Roots in the Past” organized by the Association of Art Bridges International Culture and Art with the support of YTB was held. The exhibition, where valuable works from the branches of illumination, miniature, calligraphy, marbling, quilling, tile, wood carving and stone carving were presented, brought together art lovers who are devoted to Turkish Islamic Art.

The opening speech of the program was made by YTB Vice President Murat Kazancı. Kazancı mentioned the fields of activity and works of YTB in his speech. Kazancı said that YTB has carried out many culture and art projects in the subjects that fall within its scope of activity within the framework of the unifying power of art and culture. Stating that very valuable works will be presented in the exhibition, Kazancı thanked the artists for their efforts.

President of the Association of Art Bridges International Culture and Art Ufuk Soydemirgil also stated that they carry out human-oriented activities as an association. Soydemirgil, who said that they take the Ahi understanding as their guide, said, "The Ahi Organization, which has been the cornerstone of our social existence since the Seljuks, continues to be the guarantee of the unity, solidarity and brotherhood of our nation today with its centuries-old tradition."

Artist Mehmet Gürsoy, awarded in 2009 the UNESCO Living Human Treasure Prize, joined the program via online connection. Gürsoy said that our ancestors made their art to discover the universe. Expressing that art has a purpose such as cleansing the soul, Gürsoy emphasized that success cannot be achieved in a short way.

Ankara Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Erhan Karakaya also thanked the artists by giving a speech at the event.

After the speeches, the opening ribbon was cut and the artworks were opened to visit of art lovers.