This past month, I had the incredible opportunity to be artist in residence at K2 Contemporary Art Center (K2 Güncel Sanat Merkezi), a beautiful art center situated in a natural compound in the vicinity of Izmir.
Izmir, with its modern vibrant streets and historical monuments, provided the perfect setting for this residency. From the colourful Kemeralti Bazaar to the ancient Agora, the city emanates a unique energy that blends cultures, sounds, tastes, smells, colours, and the old with the new. This plurality found its way into my work, inspiring me to reflect on the heritage of the area and the interplay between tradition and modernity.
During my time at K2, I focused on composing a new piece while researching ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman classical music, their modal systems, as well as mannerisms of gesture and expression, and concepts of temporality. I was not interested in a mere imitation or integration of melodic/harmonic elements from these musical cultures but rather in an abstract relationship to a "Near Eastern" or "Mediterranean" conception of contemporary music. Ultimately, I'm not interested in any kind of nostalgic "revival of the past" or anything folklore, but I'm concerned with breaking any patterns that have been ingrained in my writing through my Western music education.
The residency was also a chance to engage with a diverse community of artists. I was fortunate to connect with creators from various disciplines, exchanging ideas and exploring future projects. These dialogues deepened my understanding of how art can serve as a bridge between cultures.
This experience would not have been possible without the unwavering support of K2 and the Anna Lindh Foundation through their ALFinMOTION mobility program. Mrs. Aysegul Kurtel’s vision for nurturing creativity in such a serene environment is truly inspiring, and I am deeply grateful for her generosity and guidance. Special thanks to Ümit, Sezan, Semih, Begüm, and Recep for their warm hospitality and for their support throughout my stay.
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