What proved essential within Mescis curatorial framework was incorporating site-specific artworks while also emphasizing Eliassons thematic range.
I had the pleasure of visiting Olafur Eliassons exhibit at Istanbul Modern and walked away incredibly impressed.
I loved the way the artworks played with light, reflection, and color.
It was so thoughtful and interactive, sparking joy and playfulness.
It was absolutely beautiful, Eugene Kim, co-founder and editor-in-chief of My Modern Met, says.
Read on for our exclusive interview with the curator.
The outside of Istanbul Modern (Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met).
The outside of Istanbul Modern (Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met).
What inspired you to pursue a career in curation?
What led you to Istanbul Modern?
My friends I had met there from the university would work at the German Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.
However, as I didn’t speak German, it was not feasible for me to work with them.
I applied, and I have been working at the museum ever since.
What was the process of curatingOlafur Eliasson: Your unexpected encounter?
How did you decide which artworks to feature and how to place them within the space?
Particularly due to the pandemic, the opening of the new museum building happened later than planned.
That is why, as the construction was being erected, we revisited the selection over and over again.
We were sure about a few things from the start, however.
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met.
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met.
Your unexpected encounteris Eliasson’s first solo exhibition in Turkey.
What is the significance of this moment?
Color, light, and movement allow us to see the world we are in through different lenses.
What were the challenges in curating the exhibition?
What were your favorite moments?
I believe it is important to see challenges as stimulating opportunities to develop new methodologies.
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met.
When curating, what are a few things you keep in mind?
Each exhibition at the museum is realized by people who come together with diverse responsibilities and purposes.
What do you hope people will take away from your curatorial work?
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met.
Naturally, just like every curator, I have my own areas of interest and expertise.
I also find it highly relevant to discover new artists and contextualize tendencies from history to the present day.
Do you have any exciting projects coming up in the near future?
Photo: Eugene Kim/My Modern Met.
My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Istanbul Modern.
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