Istanbul Residency, Part 1

Simon Ramirez Restrepo (MFA 2016)

Terrace view from the female´s residence

Today is my third day in Istanbul. So far we’ve immersed ourselves in the culture through walking, eating, visiting, observing, and exploring. We are feeling better and happier with each day that passes. As expected, the jet lag has hit us hard, but the magical energy of the city has filled us with the vitality to create.

Street near our apartment

We are still overwhelmed by the layout and size of Istanbul and have even resorted to old school paper maps and guidebooks to help us explore the city’s incredible sights.

Touring around with Ali

Having only been here for 72 hours, our eager explorations have given us the feeling that we have been here longer.

Our studio

Drawing displaying at a gallery

Some of the highlights consist of walking around our neighborhood (Beyoglu, part of the European side of Istanbul), trying delicious traditional Turkish dishes, visiting a few galleries in the area, riding the ferry on the Bosphorus River, and touring our stunning studio building.

Bosphorus ferry trip

I’m writing this post from the terrace of my residency mate’s residence that has breathtaking views of the Bosphorus River (which divides Europe and Asia).

Mimar Sinan Güzel Sanatlar Üniversitesi . Location of our studio.

Us :)

While my colleagues diligently work on their diverse self-directed projects, the air is filled with beautiful mosque whisperings, creating a unique soundtrack to this perfect sunny day. Special thanks to the New York Academy of Art, our host Ali Kerem Bilge and Mimar Sinan Güzel Sanatlar Üniversitesi for making this possible.