Artweeks Istanbul 2026: Explore 300+ Artworks in Historic Beşiktaş
Discover 300+ artworks from three private collections at Artweeks Istanbul 2026. Free admission at Akaretler, Beşiktaş, until November 8.
Nate
Published 23 October 2026 · 👁 13 views
Three remarkable private collections, internationally acclaimed artists and the historic streets of Akaretler. One of Istanbul’s most interesting cultural experiences is free to visit until November 8.
Looking for something different to do in Istanbul?
Artweeks Istanbul: Collectors Edition 2026 brings more than 300 artworks from three significant private collections to the historic Akaretler Row Houses in Beşiktaş.
Running from September 17 to November 8, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to discover artworks that are not ordinarily accessible to the public.
Three Collections, Three Perspectives
Unlike traditional art fairs, this special edition focuses on the stories and artistic visions behind private collections.
Banu & Hakan Çarmıklı — Reunion (Kavuşma)
An exploration of memory, relationships and the emotional connections between people and art, including perspectives on women artists and social issues.
Öner Kocabeyoğlu — Passion and Patience (Tutku ve Sabır)
Curated by Levent Çalıkoğlu, this collection features 140 works by 91 artists, exploring identity, imagination and the human experience.
Tansa Mermerci — Calm and Turmoil (Sükûn ve Galeyan)
A collection connecting traditional and contemporary artistic expressions, with themes of identity, belonging and transformation.
International Artists Worth Discovering
The exhibitions feature works by artists from different countries and artistic traditions.
Among the internationally recognized names represented in Tansa Mermerci’s collection are:
Martin Creed (UK) — Conceptual art transforming everyday objects into unexpected experiences.
Yuji Agematsu (Japan) — Art created using found objects and materials from urban environments.
Nil Yalter (Türkiye/France) — Internationally acclaimed work exploring migration, identity and gender.
For Istanbul’s international community, Artweeks offers an opportunity to experience contemporary art through different cultural perspectives.
Special Talks — October 24
Two discussions are listed for Saturday:
15:00 — Passion and Patience: Öner Kocabeyoğlu and Levent Çalıkoğlu discuss the art of collecting.
17:00 — Building a Relationship: Tansa Mermerci and Yasemin Özcan, moderated by Şebnem Alp Alkın.
The talks are advertised in Turkish; English interpretation has not been confirmed. Check the official schedule for updates.
Plan Your Visit
Dates: September 17 – November 8, 2026
Location: Akaretler Sıraevler, Beşiktaş — Buildings A23, A25–27, A43 and A45
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday and weekends, 12:00–19:00; Friday until 20:00. Closed Mondays.
Admission: Free
Organizer: Bilgili Sanat
Main Partner: Kalebodur
Getting there: Take the ferry to Beşiktaş and walk to Akaretler, or arrive via nearby public transport.
Suggested visit: Allow 60–90 minutes.
Discover Istanbul with Smileys
At Smileys Community, we believe exploring a city is better together.
From art walks and cultural experiences to language exchanges and social gatherings, Smileys connects expats, international students, digital nomads and globally minded locals through real-life activities.
Artweeks is a wonderful opportunity to discover Istanbul’s creative side, share perspectives and perhaps make a new friend along the way.
Organizing an event in Istanbul? Partner with Smileys.
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