Blending traditional arts with contemporary interpretations, the “Loyalty” exhibition extends a cultural salute to Palestine and has opened its doors to art lovers at the Dolmabahçe Art Gallery.
08 May 2025
In collaboration with the Palestine Foundation and with the support of the National Palaces Administration, Albaraka, Ibn Haldun University, and TÜRGEV, the “Loyalty” exhibition was curated by Meryem Veli, with creative direction by H. Gülnihal Aydın.
Featuring original works from traditional art forms such as calligraphy, illumination, marbling, and miniature, the exhibition brought together pieces that reflect the spirit of Jerusalem and the cry of Gaza. The well-attended opening welcomed figures from academia, media, civil society, and the cultural sphere.
Where Art Meets Conscience
The “Loyalty” exhibition not only makes visible the spiritual bond we share with the people of Palestine through art but also presents a powerful example of cultural solidarity. Each work embodies our nation’s sensitivity to the humanitarian tragedy in Palestine and expresses the moral language of our ancient arts.
A Message from Our President: “This Voice Is Our Voice”
In her remarks at the opening, our Chairwoman, Attorney Hatice Akıncı Yılmaz, stated:
“As children of this land, we are not among those who remain silent in the face of oppression; we are the bearers of a conscience armed with mercy, standing firmly against the oppressor. The ‘Loyalty’ exhibition is an effort to be the voice of the oppressed through arts nourished by the wisdom of our ancestors. Each piece represents a cultural stance against the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Palestine.”
She emphasized that the exhibition is not merely an art event but also a part of the mercy-infused journey of our civilization:
“As the children of a nation whose wind blows from Jerusalem, whose prayers rise from Bosnia, and whose resolve comes from Istanbul, we demonstrate solidarity not only in words but also through art. This voice is our voice. This spirit, this conscience, is the hope of the oppressed, the essence of our nation, and the shared memory of humanity.”
All Proceeds for Gaza
All proceeds from the exhibition will be directed to humanitarian aid projects in Gaza. Visitors are not only experiencing art but also becoming part of a call to conscience.
The “Loyalty” exhibition will remain open to visitors at Dolmabahçe Art Gallery until May 17.
