New art exhibition opens at iGA Istanbul Airport

iGA Istanbul Airport has unveiled its new solo art exhibition series with the official opening of Encounter with Fahrelnissa Zeid in the International Departures Hall.

The exhibition in the iGA ART Gallery is centred around a striking 1960 oil painting by the pioneering Turkish artist, and offers an intimate look into Zeid’s life and legacy through archival documents, photographs, and video.

Curated by professor Dr Marcus Graf of the iGA ART executive Board, the exhibition explores Zeid’s unique position at the crossroads of East and West.

A celebrated painter and sculptor, Zeid was one of the first female artists to merge Islamic and European visual traditions – an artistic ambassador who defied boundaries and expectations.

“Fahrelnissa Zeid fused tradition with modernism in a way few artists have,” noted the airport’s chief commercial officer Server Aydın.

“At a time when division is easy, Zeid’s work reminds us of art’s power to connect across cultures. At iGA, we reflect that same spirit of inclusivity in everything we do.”

Prof Graf added: “The Solo series is built on a simple premise – one artist, one original work, infinite meaning. In today’s age of visual saturation, we want to invite travellers to pause, look closely, and connect.”

This exhibition marks a milestone for iGA ART as for the first time, artworks and insights from the gallery are being extended across the airport.

“By integrating content into prominent terminal spaces, we’re reaching travellers who might not otherwise visit the gallery,” said Prof. Dr. Gülveli Kaya of the iGA ART Board.  “It’s about bringing art to the journey itself.”