On Saturday, June 14th, Setur Kalamış Marina, one of Istanbul’s most prestigious locations, hosted the “Art on the Boat” festival. Sponsored by İştirak Şehircilik and Mutlu Makarna, the event brought together art, music, gastronomy, and the sea. Taking place on a sunny summer day, the festival offered visitors a multifaceted cultural and artistic experience.
Art and Sea Say: “No Knots, Only Bonds”
Organized by İntersis Agency, the festival drew attention with its theme, “No knots, only bonds,” inspired by sailing culture. Art lovers, gourmets, and sea enthusiasts came together for day-long workshops, talks, and stage performances.
Famous Names Added Color to the Event
Among the festival’s notable guests were Masterchef Mehmet Yalçınkaya, Bedri Usta, Eren Kaşıkçı (from Kızıl Sakal’ın Mutfağı / Redbeard’s Kitchen), weaving artist Fırat Neziroğlu, author and musician Aşkım Kapışmak, and veteran theater actor Haldun Dormen. Haldun Dormen received great applause from the audience as he watched Mehmet Yalçınkaya’s gastronomy talk from the front row.
Stage Performances and Workshops Drew Great Interest
Throughout the festival, artists from various disciplines took the stage:
- Mehmet Yalçınkaya – Gastronomy talk
- Aşkım Kapışmak – A talk on love
- Fırat Neziroğlu & Haluk Tuğcu – Art performance
- Cenk Girginol – Talk on coffee culture
- Cabir Çobanoğlu – Scent workshop
- Kango Jumps Show – Dance performance
Additionally, artists such as Haluk Tuğcu, Pınar Tuğba Biçmen, Selin Fenerci, Mahir Kurtalan, and Özge Nalbantoğlu received great acclaim for their live performances. Stands set up in the event area also gave visitors the opportunity to browse and purchase original artworks.
The Sunset Concert Created Unforgettable Moments
The festival concluded with the “The Color of Sound: Sunset” concert, performed by the Melis Sökmen – Ceyda Pirali Orchestra. This musical feast, ranging from classic jazz to modern melodies, combined with the unique atmosphere of the sunset to provide attendees with an unforgettable evening.
An Artistic Breeze at Kalamış Marina
The “Art on the Boat” festival was an inspiring event that contributed to Istanbul’s cultural life, which is deeply intertwined with the sea, bringing together art lovers and sea enthusiasts. The high level of interest shown in the event once again proved that Kalamış Marina has become a leading location for cultural and artistic events.
