Our University Hosts Exhibition Bringing the Colors of the Republic to Weaving: “Colors of the Republic: In the Footsteps of Ikat”

As part of the 103rd anniversary of our Republic, the Department of Textile and Fashion Design at our university’s Faculty of Fine Arts held the opening of a group exhibition titled “Colors of the Republic: In the Footsteps of Ikat” on Tuesday, October 27, which brings together traditional weaving culture with a contemporary design approach. The opening was attended by Prof. Metin Şen, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, along with academic and administrative staff and numerous art enthusiasts.

Traditional Weaving Knowledge Meets Contemporary Design

Featuring the original works of 13 young designers created as part of the “Weaving Design” course led by Assoc. Prof. Özge Usluca Erim, the exhibition showcases the students’ individual artistic approaches as they translate their research on materials, colors, and forms—conducted in line with their chosen themes—onto woven surfaces. These works, which reinterpret traditional weaving knowledge through a contemporary design language, contribute to carrying cultural heritage into the future through creative production.

The Republic’s Inclusive Values Interpreted Through an Aesthetic Language

At the heart of the exhibition is the ikat technique, in which patterns are created by dyeing specific sections of the yarn before weaving. Ikat, one of the unique methods of traditional textile culture, is reimagined in the exhibition through explorations of different colors, textures, and forms. Each work, reflecting a distinct idea and artistic narrative, symbolizes the convergence of individual differences within a shared whole. In this regard, the exhibition interprets the Republic’s pluralistic, unifying, and inclusive values through the aesthetic language of weaving.

“Production Knowledge from the Past Comes to Life Again”

Assoc. Prof. Özge Usluca Erim noted that the “Colors of the Republic: In the Footsteps of Ikat” exhibition goes beyond being merely an event showcasing a traditional textile technique; it offers a space for artistic reflection on cultural continuity, creative production, labor, and the culture of communal living. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Usluca Erim stated, “Inspired by the meaning and values of Republic Day, the exhibition demonstrates that production knowledge from the past can be revitalized through contemporary design approaches, while also highlighting the artistic expression opportunities available to young designers.” She expressed her gratitude to everyone who provided support and contributions, particularly our Rector, Prof. Dr. Erol Yaşar.

Reflecting the Faculty of Fine Arts’ approach that brings together education, research, and artistic production, the exhibition aims to contribute to our shared cultural memory through art and design by blending the colors of the Republic with the traces of traditional weaving from October 27 to November 9.

Press and Public Relations Department