Could you tell us about yourself?
I am a faculty member in the Department of Art History at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. I completed my master’s studies in Germany, focusing on cultural policies during the Nazi era. My doctoral thesis, on the other hand, examined the dynamics of the contemporary art scene in Turkey.
Which period or movement in art history do you find most interesting?
The modern and contemporary periods in art history are my areas of interest, so I would say from the early 19th century to the present.
What is the role of art criticism in today’s world? Does it enhance public understanding of art, or does it risk alienating the audience?
In today’s world, the aim of art criticism should be to explain the artist and the artwork produced. Since the term “criticism” can often be misunderstood in Turkish, it may appear to imply only a negative approach. However, to critique means to find an artwork noteworthy and to develop diverse thoughts on it.
Do you think the way artworks are displayed affects art viewers?
I believe that the methods and styles of displaying artworks have a significant impact on the audience.
Which artworks or artists in art history have shocked viewers or critics and sparked major debates?
Gustave Courbet, The Stone Breakers (1849)
Edouard Manet, Luncheon on the Grass (1863)
Marcel Duchamp, Fountain (1917)
What are your thoughts on activists who damage cultural heritage artworks to draw attention?
Recently, I find activists aiming to raise awareness of the climate crisis justified. To clarify, they have not actually damaged any artworks to date.
Do you think most collectors are sufficiently knowledgeable about artworks?
I don’t believe that most collectors are sufficiently knowledgeable about artworks. In Turkey, the younger generation follows the international art scene more closely and collects works more consciously. This awareness seems to be lacking in the previous generation.
Which museum would you like to be the director of?
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.
Which artist would you like to curate?
Maurizio Cattelan
Which piece of art would you most like to own?
Van Gogh, The Starry Night (1889)
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