Each piece reflects the individual artist’s own background, training and temperament, which could create a chaotic effect under some circumstances. However, the curator of the show is well-known minimalist painter Rowena Martinez Ulayan, and she has once again flawlessly brought together an exhibition illustrating the fact that ALI is a formidable force in the İstanbul art scene.Ulayan faced a formidable challenge in preparing the show due to the space limitations of the gallery, which is a four-meter by five-meter nook at the entrance of a government building. This space is miniscule compared to ALI’s show last year at Beylerbeyi Palace. In spite of the small area, having the exhibition in a space of this size allows the works to radiate and create an even more powerful impact on the viewers.
“Prisms 2010” highlights the work of 15 artists from nine countries. Participants are: Joe Brown, Judy Bleil, Justin Eccles and Kelly Hevel from the United States, Kay Roisetter and Ewen MacDonald from the United Kingdom, Denka Aydin from Cuba, Inge Bech Gundal from Denmark, Virginie Dabiel from France, Erwin Utchanah from Mauritania, Elza Islamova from Russia, Diana Page and Lois Winter from South Africa and Behiye Kepir and Hatice Sonay of Turkey.
The only drawback for “Prisms 2010” is that it has a very limited run, from March 1-7 at the Beşiktaş Sanat Galerisi. However, this show is yet another delightful and inspiring exhibition from the members of ALI, and it is definitely worth a visit. From one small corner of Levent, the rays of creativity are spreading across İstanbul.
ALI is an informal group for artists and all art enthusiasts living in İstanbul. Since its inception during the preparations of the Contemporary Istanbul International Art Fair 2007, the group has aimed to bring together İstanbul’s international community with an interest in fine arts. Founded in September 2007, ALI has continued to grow rapidly. Today, ALI has over 130 members, and over 30 members are practicing artists, some professional and some amateur. Other members enjoy the İstanbul art scene and participate in activities that promote the arts.
ALI is open to anyone who lives in İstanbul, speaks English and has an interest in the fine arts. The goal of ALI is to meet in order to create and inspire. ALI holds monthly meetings in order to share ideas and talents. They organize events so that members can have the chance to explore together and expand their experience. Just a few of the past events have included group visits to museums, galleries, artist’s studios, workshops, talks and exhibitions. For more information on ALI, contact: artloversofistanbul@hotmail.com
