Istanbul will host one of its most anticipated cultural events, the 15th Istanbul International Art and Culture Festival (IST.FESTIVAL), from 10 to 12 October.
This year’s theme, “What Is Real Reality?”, will guide three days of panels, workshops, film screenings and exhibitions, turning the city into a hub of creativity. Founded in 2010 by Demet Müftüoğlu Eseli and Alphan Eseli, the festival has become an international platform where art, design, cinema, fashion, music and literature meet.
International artists and creative voices
The 2025 programme features globally known names across disciplines, including contemporary artist Jeff Koons, graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister and musician Kid Cudi. The renowned photographer duo Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin will also attend.
Actor Hazar Ergüçlü, pianist and composer Marcin Masecki and artist José Parlá also join the programme. This year’s line-up also includes performance artist Claudia Hilda, chef Rose Chalalai Singh and actor Waris Ahluwalia. The festival also brings together leading fashion figures such as Małgosia Bela and Anja Rubik.
In addition, heads of international cultural institutions, including Berlinale director Tricia Tuttle and Louvre Abu Dhabi director Manuel Rabaté, will share their perspectives in specialist sessions.
