Turkish Airlines, in collaboration with renowned media artist Refik Anadol, has brought its acclaimed art project Inner Portrait to Türkiye for the first time. Following its premiere at Art Basel in Basel, the exhibition is now open to art enthusiasts at Istanbul’s Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) until December 1, 2024.

Inner Portrait explores the profound impact of travel on human biology and psychology through the captivating stories of four individuals from different continents who had never travelled before.

The project merges art and science, using advanced neurotechnology to record the biological and neurobiological changes experienced by participants during their transformative journeys.

Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat, said: “Inner Portrait highlights that travelling is not only a physical journey, but it is also a profound experience that transforms a person’s inner world.

“As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we are committed to connecting the world through the universal language of art and culture. Within the framework of this mission, we are proud to be a brand that supports art at every point, building bridges with different cultures through art.”

Anadol said: “The Inner Portrait project is a journey that expresses the change traveling creates in the human mind and body at the intersection of science, life, and imagination.

“I am very excited to be able to present this work to the audience at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), one of Istanbul's most important cultural centres.

“The project aims to develop both our imagination and the way we perceive the world by bringing together a vast data archive consisting of the biological responses of the travelling participants with art.”

The four participants’ journeys provided the foundation for the project’s data and artistic interpretation. Brazilian Tuikuru, an Amazon native, explored Tokyo's dynamic streets. Kenyan Esther discovered the historic charm of Istanbul. Sahar from Australia delved into the ancient wonders of Göbeklitepe and Cappadocia, while Icelander Sigurbjörn experienced Jordan’s captivating landscapes.

Neuroelectrics, a leading neuroscience company, used EEG sensors and advanced wearable devices such as the Empatica Watch to collect data before, during, and after each journey. This data was transformed into digital art by Anadol and his team, reflecting the inner transformations experienced by the participants.

The project’s documentary, directed by Bafta award-winner Jennifer Peedom and cinematographer Renan Ozturk, was also unveiled at the launch. The film delves deeper into the biological and emotional impact of travel and will be released on digital platforms in 2025.

With a team of 220 contributors from across the globe, Inner Portrait, Turkish Airlines said, underlines its commitment to cultural exchange and innovation.

The exhibition is set to tour internationally, bringing its message of transformation and connection to audiences worldwide. – TradeArabia News Service