The Istanbul Design Biennial 2018: A Tapestry Woven From Social Issues and Artistic Expression

The world of art and design often acts as a mirror, reflecting the complexities and concerns of the societies it arises from. In 2018, the Istanbul Design Biennial took on this reflective role with exceptional depth, weaving together social issues, innovative artistic expression, and critical dialogues under the overarching theme “A New Museum.” Curated by the esteemed designer and architect Mariana Pestana, the biennial transformed Istanbul into a vibrant platform for exploring the evolving relationship between design, society, and power.

At its core, the “A New Museum” concept sought to challenge the traditional notion of museums as static repositories of objects. Instead, it envisioned them as dynamic spaces for engagement, interaction, and critical reflection on the role of design in shaping our world. Pestana assembled a diverse group of designers, artists, architects, researchers, and activists from across the globe, inviting them to contribute projects that explored this theme through various lenses:

• Challenging Narratives: Many projects sought to disrupt dominant narratives and highlight marginalized voices. For example, artist Ahmet Öğüt’s “The Silent University” project created a space for knowledge sharing and exchange amongst refugees and asylum seekers.
• Sustainability and Social Impact: Design interventions focused on addressing pressing social and environmental issues gained prominence. The “Plastic Soup Project,” led by designer Joris van Tubergen, raised awareness about plastic pollution in our oceans through immersive installations and interactive experiences.
• Technology and the Future of Design:

Exploring the transformative potential of technology became a recurring theme. Projects like “The Glitch” by Refik Anadol utilized artificial intelligence to create mesmerizing digital artworks that explored the intersection of data, creativity, and human experience.

Consequences and Reflections

The Istanbul Design Biennial 2018 left a lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape and beyond:

• Elevated Public Discourse: The biennial sparked vital conversations about design’s role in addressing social challenges and shaping a more equitable future.

Its events, workshops, and public programs attracted a wide audience, engaging citizens from diverse backgrounds in critical dialogues about urban development, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity.

• Empowering Emerging Designers: The biennial provided a crucial platform for emerging designers from Turkey and the wider region to showcase their work and connect with international audiences.

Many participants reported increased visibility and opportunities following the event.

• Lasting Installations and Interventions: Several design projects initiated during the biennial were implemented in public spaces throughout Istanbul, leaving a tangible legacy on the city’s built environment.

For example, “The Vertical Garden” project by artist Mehmet Ali Uysal transformed a derelict building facade into a vibrant green space, demonstrating the power of design to revitalize urban areas and promote biodiversity.

A Legacy of Innovation and Social Impact

The Istanbul Design Biennial 2018 serves as a testament to the transformative potential of design when viewed through a socially conscious lens. By embracing innovative artistic expression, fostering collaboration between diverse stakeholders, and prioritizing critical dialogues about pressing social issues, the biennial created a lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape and beyond.

As we navigate an increasingly complex world, the lessons learned from the Istanbul Design Biennial 2018 remain relevant: design is not merely about aesthetics; it has the power to shape our societies, empower communities, and pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.

About Mariana Pestana Mariana Pestana is a renowned Portuguese architect and designer known for her experimental and socially engaged approach to architecture.

She has curated numerous exhibitions and events exploring the intersection of design, culture, and social justice. Her work has been widely acclaimed, receiving awards and recognition from prestigious institutions around the world.