Eco Art Lab

For young people aged 12 and older and adults

Istanbul Modern is launching an inspiring program to foster creativity in its new building. Sponsored by Damat Tween, Eco Art Lab helps us strengthen our ties with nature and the environment through art. In the Eco Art Lab learning space, young people aged 12 and older and adults can attend free workshops and activities led by artists in which they explore the subject of nature based on works of art.

Eco Art Lab invites everyone to produce innovative and nature-friendly art and design ideas. Participants establish creative and deep connections with nature and create new meanings of nature through art.

Combining the disciplines of art and design, Eco Art Lab includes “Upcycling Workshops with Artists” as well as “Transformation of Paper” workshops which explore natural forms, the nature of objects, and their transformation.

The programs are offered to educational institutions at 11.00 and 14.00 every weekday except Mondays.

Weekend workshops are held on Saturdays at 10.30 and 14.00 and Sundays at 10.30 for 12-14 and 15-17 year-olds and at 14.00 for adults.

The programs are free of charge.

Transformation of Paper

Eco Art Lab begins with an educational program where wastepaper from Istanbul Modern’s recycling bin is transformed into art. The workshop draws inspiration from artworks featured in Istanbul Modern’s collection made using handmade paper and natural materials. Participants first examine the works in the museum’s collection, after which they tear up wastepaper, soak the pieces in a paper trough, dry them, and complete the program by making drawings on the handmade paper they have produced.

Upcycling Workshops with Artists

In collaboration with artists, Eco Art Lab organizes upcycling workshops focusing on topics such as sustainable future, continuity of life for all, and environmental change. Together with artists and designers from different fields, participants explore the methods and possibilities of transforming end-of-life items into artistic materials or design products.