Istanbul Biennial

The Istanbul Biennial is an international exhibition of contemporary art, staged by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) since 1987. It takes place across several venues in the city. Kevser Güler has directed it since preparations for the 18th edition began in 2024.

Beral Madra coordinated the first two editions, in 1987 and 1989, and from 1992 each edition has had a single curator. That curator is chosen after İKSV consults an international advisory board. Rather than national representation, the biennial puts dialogue between artists and audiences first. Every edition leaves the city a permanent work, and Koç Holding is the sponsor from 2007 to 2036.

Christine Tohmé curated the 18th edition, whose first part ran from 20 September to 23 November 2025 in eight venues, including the Galata Greek School and Zihni Han. It drew more than 600,000 visitors and closed after that first leg, although three parts had been planned. LIU Ding and Carol Yinghua LU are curating the 19th edition, set for 18 September to 14 November 2027.