The International Antalya Architecture Biennial (IABA 2011 / ANTALYA), breaking new ground in Turkey, will begin with its opening events from October 24 to October 28, 2011, under the leadership of the Chamber of Architects Antalya Branch, and will continue in Antalya until November 27, 2011.
With the theme of “Intersections”, the Biennial aims to bring architectural culture in Turkey into focus and into dialogue within a wide-reaching national and international platform. It seeks to create a meaningful environment for discussion and idea exchange through the participation of architects, designers, planners, academics, artists, politicians, architecture students, the people of Antalya, and other attendees.
At the same time, in line with the essence of the “biennial” concept, this event—by virtue of its independent and critical stance—will provide possibilities far beyond expectations for realizing such an ambitious goal.
Additionally, by utilizing various urban spaces of the city of Antalya to express itself, the Architecture Biennial will serve as a platform to explore and discuss urban problems through the lens of architecture and the imagination of intersections. It will foster the emergence of new ideas aimed at contributing to the future of our cities.
As the first event of its kind to be held in Turkey, the Architecture Biennial will help to deepen the public’s awareness and perception of architecture, by opening space for dialogue on architectural practices, design, the built environment, and the concept of space. Furthermore, it will promote multi-disciplinary interactions that enrich the field of architecture.
The Biennial also presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen intra-professional communication by bringing together both professional and academic communities to collaboratively reflect on the future of architecture.
With the belief that this first step will lay the foundation for a biennial tradition within the Turkish architectural landscape, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the realization of this initiative—especially the Chamber of Architects Antalya Branch—and to all those who offered their support.
Looking forward to meeting you in Antalya…
Prof. Dr. Zekai GÖRGÜLÜ
Chair of IABA’11