8.2 The New Vision and Abstract Art in Turkey

Turkish modernism saw a shift from figurative to abstract art in the early 20th century. The New Vision movement, influenced by European avant-garde and Islamic traditions, embraced abstraction, geometric forms, and expressive color to create a universal visual language.

Pioneering artists like Ferruh Başağa and Fahrelnissa Zeid challenged traditional notions of art in Turkey. Despite initial skepticism and institutional challenges, abstract art gradually gained acceptance, paving the way for new artistic expressions in the country.

New Vision Principles and Aesthetics

Core Principles

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• Rejects naturalism and embraces abstraction and experimentation
• Emphasizes geometric and organic forms
• Explores the expressive potential of color and texture
• Seeks to create a universal, non-representational visual language

Aesthetic Characteristics

• Sense of dynamism and spontaneity in the artwork
• Aims to evoke emotional and spiritual responses in the viewer
• Influenced by European avant-garde movements (Cubism, Constructivism, Abstract Expressionism)
• Draws inspiration from Islamic art traditions

Figurative to Abstract Transition in Turkish Modernism

Early 20th Century Figurative Art

• Depicts scenes of everyday life, landscapes, and portraits
• Gradual experimentation with simplification of forms, flattening of space, and focus on color and composition

Factors Contributing to the Shift Towards Abstraction

• Exposure to European avant-garde movements through exhibitions, publications, and artists' travels
• Establishment of the Turkish State Academy of Fine Arts (Devlet Güzel Sanatlar Akademisi) in 1928
  • Provides a platform for artists to explore new styles and techniques, including abstraction
• Surge in abstract art in the 1950s, led by the New Vision movement
  • Explores non-representational forms and the expression of subjective experiences

Prominent Turkish Abstract Artists

Ferruh Başağa (1914-2010)

• Pioneer of Turkish abstract art
• Known for geometric compositions and vibrant colors inspired by Anatolian textiles and Islamic art

Adnan Çoker (1927-2018)

• Develops a unique style of abstract expressionism
• Combines gestural brushstrokes with calligraphic elements and a limited color palette

Fahrelnissa Zeid (1901-1991)

• Prominent figure in Turkish abstract art
• Creates large-scale canvases featuring intricate geometric patterns and a fusion of Eastern and Western influences

Nejad Melih Devrim (1923-1995)

• Leading proponent of the New Vision movement
• Creates abstract compositions exploring the interplay of color, line, and form

Mübin Orhon (1924-1981)

• Develops a distinctive style of abstract art
• Characterized by the use of muted colors, organic forms, and a sense of spatial depth

Impact on the Turkish Art Scene

• Challenges traditional notions of art in Turkey
• Paves the way for the acceptance and appreciation of abstract art in the country

Abstract Art Reception in Turkey

Initial Reactions and Challenges

• Met with both enthusiasm and skepticism
• Challenges established artistic traditions and cultural norms
• Viewed by some as a foreign influence disconnected from Turkish cultural identity and values

Institutional Challenges

• State-sponsored art institutions initially favor figurative and representational art
• Difficult for abstract artists to gain recognition and support
• Limited exhibition opportunities in galleries and museums hesitant to showcase non-representational works

Sociopolitical Context

• Political and social upheavals in Turkey during the 20th century (military coups, periods of censorship)
• Impacts the development and reception of abstract art

Gradual Acceptance and Appreciation

• Abstract art gains acceptance and appreciation over time
• Efforts of pioneering artists, educators, and cultural institutions contribute to its recognition