Sema’Zen is a large-scale public art installation designed by Toros and Partners for Istanbul Airport, selected as a finalist in the prestigious art competition organized by IGA ART. Inspired by Mevlana’s teachings of love, tolerance, and unity, the artwork reimagines Istanbul as a universal center and transforms the concept of travel into an artistic narrative.
At the core of existence lies the act of rotation; every particle in the universe is in motion. The universe rotates, our galaxy revolves, the stars rotate, and our world turns, giving life through its continuous movement. Spring turns into summer, autumn turns into winter; day turns into night, night into day. This universal rotation binds everything together within an endless flow.
Istanbul is like the center of the world; everything revolves around this magical city. Those who leave always carry it with longing in their hearts. As Napoleon once said with admiration, “If the world were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital.” This ancient city, which served as the capital of three great empires, embraces everyone with its rich history and multilayered cultural identity, welcoming all who arrive from around the world.
Mevlana is one of the most significant figures of Turkish culture, known for his call for love and tolerance. Within his wisdom lie traces of divine love; unifying, inclusive, embracing.
Inspired by this universal cycle and ancient wisdom, Sema’Zen carries Mevlana’s philosophy to Istanbul Airport and addresses the world with the message, “Come, whoever you are, come.” By placing Istanbul at its center, the artwork symbolizes the idea that the entire universe revolves around it. Istanbul Airport is Turkey’s gateway to the world through art and to the universe through sema. Inspired by the tradition of sema, Sema’Zen creates an invisible bond between arriving and departing passengers.
In this space where earth and sky converge, it becomes a bridge between reunions and farewells. Beauty, love, and unity are carried to the world through art.
Sema’Zen is a reflection of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage. It keeps Mevlana’s teachings alive and continues to turn endlessly, embracing all of humanity. This kinetic artwork, encountered by travelers at Istanbul Airport, leaves an unforgettable memory in the lives of passengers, each carrying a story of their own.
Come, come, and keep coming, for Istanbul is the capital of dreams and a city that holds infinite love in the hearts of all.
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