The Contemporary Istanbul Foundation (CIF) is a not-for-profit organization committed to promoting contemporary art and engaging diverse audiences. By fostering connections between local and global art scenes, CIF aims to raise awareness about critical issues such as democratic rights, freedom of expression, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.
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About CIF
ABOUT CIF
Focusing on sustainability and participation, CIF designs programs that inspire shared growth and development while collaborating with local and international institutions on education, research, exhibitions, and artist residencies. CIF plays a pivotal role in nurturing creative industries and advancing Turkiye's cultural landscape.
GOLDEN HORN LIGHT FESTIVAL
Premiere Edition Illuminates Istanbul’s Historic Waterfront
September 18 – 28, 2025 | Istanbul, Türkiye
About GHLF
The Golden Horn Light Festival, organized by the Contemporary Istanbul Foundation (CIF), will transform Istanbul’s historic waterfront into a luminous, open-air gallery. Showcasing over 20 large-scale light-based and digital artworks, the festival bridges past and future, exploring the city’s rich heritage through innovative installations.
A Vision Rooted in Istanbul’s Identity
Focusing on site-specific, immersive experiences, the festival highlights the Golden Horn’s cultural revival, spanning from Ataturk Bridge to Tersane Istanbul and to Balat Pier. As part of the 20th edition of Contemporary Istanbul, it underscores the city’s evolving role in global contemporary art.
Festival Highlights
The festival will present a diverse selection of over 20 large-scale installations, with 14 to 16 site-specific works created by renowned international and local artists, alongside 5-6 commissioned artworks by emerging talents. These installations are designed to engage with the urban environment and will activate key waterfront locations, including Tersane Istanbul, Balat Pier, Fener Greek School, Zeyrek Cistern, and Sveti Stefan Church. Spanning approximately 3 to 3.5 kilometres along both shores, they aim to transform public spaces into immersive artistic experiences.
The artworks will explore themes of sustainability, historical narratives, and digital innovation, incorporating elements that reflect the Golden Horn’s myths, evolving landscape, and cultural memory. By merging light, architecture, and technology, the festival fosters a dialogue between past and present, redefining public engagement with contemporary art in Istanbul.