Migration issues to be discussed

ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Institutions in Istanbul have gathered to organize a symposium and workshops on post migration in performance art on June 8 and 9.

The Goethe-Institut Istanbul, Istanbul Policy Center, Sabancı Universty, Stiftung Mercator Initiative and Kumbaracı50 have joined forces to organize “Post migration in Performance arts: Presentation, Politics and Education” on June 9 with atelier workshops and a symposium.

On June 8 there will be a symposium on the issue at the Istanbul Policy Center followed a day later by a workshop at Kumbaracı50.

The present symposium aims to facilitate dialogue as well as strengthen the network of post-migrant theater by bringing international academics and artists together. It investigates the implications and associated themes of post-migrant cultural productions by providing a platform for the discussion of the past, present and future directions of cultural diversity, cultural education and the policies that support this art work and network. One of the key questions will be Turkey’s challenge to come to terms with its own migration histories in the present cultural conjuncture, theater infrastructure and policy climate.

According to the written statement, particularly in Germany, “post-migrant” has become a productive label to claim more representation of artists with a migration background in the theatre and art scenes.

Hegemonic culture

“The term has come to denote a perspective outside the mainstream and hegemonic culture,” a press release said. “Similarly, in other European countries, artists have developed cultural practices and community initiatives that reflect upon the increasing multiculturalism. Key actors in this field are recently collaborating and connecting, which strengthens the awareness and visibility of Europe’s diverse cultural landscape. Turkey has become an elemental part of this growing transnational network.”

The event will be held in English. Simultaneous translation from English to Turkish will be provided.