A City Transformed Tour at Aga Khan Museum

A city transformed indeed. The exhibition A City Transformed: Images of Istanbul Then and Now succeeds in its goals of transporting museum goers from stark cold of a February Toronto into the warm and beautiful cityscapes of contemporary and 19th century Istanbul.

Our evening began with tastings from Diwan, the Aga Khan’s restaurant helmed by renowned chef Mark McEwan’s. A buffet serving of Turkish delights such as Turkish pizza, falafel kebab and lentil soup were deliciously prepared and well presented by the evening’s chef. Taking the time to indulge in both the food and the atmosphere of the dining room is highly recommended for any visitor.

After the meal, museum curator Dr. Filiz Çakır Phillip escorted us to the second floor, home of the newest exhibition and the purpose of our visit, A City Transformed: Images of Istanbul Then and Now. Although we did not have the opportunity to view them on this visit, the brief glimpses of the museum collection on the lower floor looked to be comprised of many objects of interest and beauty, and I hope to return again soon to enjoy these unexplored offerings.

A City Transformed is co-curated by Dr. Phillip and Ottoman photography expert Bahattin Öztuncay. The exhibition documents the deep and vibrant history of Turkey’s largest city through mid 19th century photographs from the acclaimed collection of Ömer Koç and panoramas of modern-day Istanbul provided by contemporary photographer Murat Germen. The juxtaposition of the thriving metropolis then and now is really quite captivating in its ability to make the viewer consider the beauty and consequence urbanization, as well as the way in which the character of our great cities are shaped by their political and cultural legacies. From the Sultan’s portrait room to the panoramas to beautifully preserved albums bearing the Sultan’s calligraphic seals, the knowledge and passion of Dr. Phillips provided perfect context for and navigation to the most compelling artifacts in the exhibition.

A City Transformed will run at the Aga Khan Museum until June 26, and visitors are invited to attend an illustrated talk by York University’s Irene Markoff on March 24.

Visit agakhanmuseum.org for details.

[Review by Colin Baulke]

[Photos by Jordan Lewis]