The 9th Çanakkale Biennial Opens Its Doors to Art Enthusiasts!

The 9th Çanakkale Biennial presents a rich contemporary art experience with exhibitions by over 50 artists spread across 13 different venues. Under the theme "Let Time Run its Course", the biennial explores concepts of youth, technology, tradition, and the future, bringing together diverse artistic disciplines with Çanakkale's unique cultural and historical fabric. The event will be open to visitors until November 11.
Held at MAHAL Sanat, a cultural hub reflecting Çanakkale’s architectural memory, the opening of the 9th Çanakkale Biennial was attended by key figures, including Çanakkale Governor Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ömer Toraman, Çanakkale Mayor Muharrem Erkek, ÇOMÜ Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Evren Karayel Gökkaya, Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Çağman Esirgemez, Troya Museum Director Rıdvan Gölcük, Troya Excavation Head Prof. Dr. Rüstem Aslan, Dardanel Chairman of the Board Niyazi Önen, and Dardanel Board Member Ayşe Önen Özoğuz. Representatives from the Embassies of Malta and Estonia, the French Institute of Izmir, biennial artists, committee members, supporting institutions, and invited guests also took part in the event.
The 9th Çanakkale Biennial: A Contemporary Art Hub in Every Edition
During the opening, Seyhan Boztepe, General Artistic Director of the 9th Çanakkale Biennial, stated:
“For over 18 years, as CABININ - Çanakkale Biennial Initiative, we have been organizing the Çanakkale Biennial, and this year, its 9th edition will once again serve as a focal point where contemporary art meets the city's unique cultural, historical, and social layers. Expanding to 13 different venues, and for the first time in its history, reaching beyond the city center to Assos and Küçükkuyu, the biennial will offer a six-week program of main exhibitions, cultural-artistic events, and collaborative projects.
This year, under the title “Let Time Run its Course”, we have designed a vibrant platform where over 50 artists will allow young people to experience the rich ecosystem of contemporary art while engaging with current issues. As in every edition, we have prioritized inclusivity, interaction, and dialogue, curating a dynamic and diverse content.
We invite the people of Çanakkale and all art enthusiasts to explore the extensive program of one of Turkey’s longest-running contemporary art events. We also extend our gratitude to all our supporters, institutions, and organizations who accompany us on this journey.”
Dardanel Continues to Support the Transformative Power of Art as the Biennial’s Main Sponsor for the 3rd Time
Ayşe Önen Özoğuz, Dardanel Board Member, expressed pride in their continued support:
“Çanakkale, with its cultural heritage, is a valuable asset not only for our country but also for the world. The Çanakkale Biennial, by merging this historic legacy with contemporary art, enriches our cultural and social life through the universal language of art. While strengthening Çanakkale’s cultural scene, the biennial also enhances the city's appeal.
As a brand born in this land, Dardanel remains committed to supporting this prestigious event. We are proud to be the main sponsor of the 9th Çanakkale Biennial for the third time, this year under the theme “Let Time Run its Course”.
This edition of the biennial focuses on youth, technology, tradition, and the future. We particularly hope that events like these will spark young people’s interest in art, encourage their creative potential, and allow art to reach broader audiences.
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary as a young, dynamic, and innovative social enterprise, we will continue to increase our support for cultural events. We take great pleasure in contributing to the transformative power of art at the Çanakkale Biennial.”
Towards a New-Generation Contemporary Art Museum in Çanakkale!
The 9th edition of the Çanakkale Biennial, titled “Let Time Run its Course”, reflects its interwoven structure of institutional, curatorial, and artistic collaborations. It also serves as a manifestation of its vision—to preserve and carry forward its artistic productions, institutional model, and nearly 20 years of experience into the future.
Its slogan?
"Towards a New-Generation Contemporary Art Museum in Çanakkale!"