Hosted by the Lapta-Alsancak-Çamlıbel (LAÇ) Municipality and organized by the Alashia Terracotta Art Collective, the 10th International Mediterranean Fired Clay Symposium was held between April 10–15.
Curated by Ayhatun Ateşin and coordinated by Vedia Okutan Gaydeler, the symposium featured archaeological presentations, experimental works, and artistic interpretations inspired by artifacts from the archaic period. A total of 12 artists participated in the event.
The participating artists were announced as Kaan Canduran, Fahimeh Haydari, Kevin Safari, Evrim Ergün, Eser Keçeci Malyalı, Raif Dimililer, Soner Pilge, Kadir Sevim, Mert Kılınç, Sinem Akın Kılınç, Vedia Okutan Gaydeler, and Ayhatun Ateşin.
As part of the symposium, the “Archaic Reflections” exhibition was held on April 12, and the “On-Site Sculpture Firing Festival” took place at the Mediterranean Open-Air Museum on April 13.
The symposium series, which began in 2014 in the village of Akdeniz under the slogans “History Revives” and “Alashia Reborn,” once again emphasized raising awareness about the preservation of cultural heritage. Workshops for children were organized to instill a sense of cultural heritage in younger generations.
LAÇ Mayor Fırat Ataser stated that they will continue developing the Mediterranean Open-Air Museum area into a historical hub. He noted that the symposium contributes to the region’s tourism and cultural life.
Ayhatun Ateşin emphasized the importance of building the future by connecting with the past and highlighted the role of art in preserving cultural heritage.
It was noted that the artworks produced during the symposium would be added to the Mediterranean Open-Air Museum, enhancing its artistic diversity and creating a holistic blend of contemporary art and cultural heritage.
The exhibition titled “Archaic Reflections II” will be open to visitors on April 19–20 as part of the Mediterranean Ayrelli Festival.
