ELIF SAYDAM

Founded in 1987, the Istanbul Biennial has hosted over 1,200 artists and collectives, building a vital cultural network between Istanbul and the international art world. Elif Saydam will be participating in the first leg of the 18th Istanbul Biennial, 'The Three-Legged Cat', curated by Christine Tohmé. Biennial Director Kevser Güler and Curator Christine Tohmé unveiled the conceptual framework and title of the edition, which will unfold over three years (2025–2027). In Tohmé’s words: "Resting on three legs from 2025 through 2027, the 18th Istanbul Biennial is thoroughly feline. It secures its footing by stretching in time, following a rhythm nourished by conversations, gymnastics, and incessant news streams. Its first leg, running from 20 September to 23 November 2025, presents an exhibition with over 40 artists, alongside performances, screenings, and talks centred on themes of self-preservation and futurity. The second leg, in 2026, is dedicated to creating an academy and collaborating with local initiatives on a series of public programmes. In 2027, the biennial leans on its third leg to rest, bringing together what has been encountered along the way through a final round of exhibitions and workshops."

20 September – 23 November 2025