The streets of Izmir have been transformed into ‘paintings’

Students of Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Faculty of Fine Arts and Design have reinterpreted the city's historical texture and multicultural structure through the language of art. Students visited historical areas along the Kemeraltı, Havra (Synagogue), Agora, and Basmane line, documenting Izmir's richness through photographs as part of the ‘City and Impressionism’ project. They then transformed these shots into paintings using artificial intelligence (AI)-supported digital tools. Dr. Utkan Boyacıoğlu, the project coordinator, said, “The most important feature of this art movement is painting scenes from life with unique perspectives. Our students have reflected Izmir's dynamic and multicultural texture through their own impressions.”

The study, carried out in partnership with the IUE Office of Micro-Credentials, was integrated with the ‘Coexistence Route’ event organized within the scope of the ODAK Izmir - Common, Cooperative, Active, Inclusive Izmir Project, managed by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Urban Justice and Equality Branch Directorate.

41 STUDENTS PARTICIPATED

41 students observed and photographed life in the city's historical spots, including Anafartalar Street, Kadı Hamamı (Bath), Mavi Kortejo, Hatuniye Mosque, Dönertaş Sebil (Fountain), Women's Museum, Fettah Mosque & Mısri Lodge, Altınpark excavation site, Kumrulu Mescit (Small Mosque), Church of St. Vukolos, Bıçakçı Tavern & Yıldız Cinema, and Basmane Train Station. IUE students then used AI-supported art tools to transform these photographs into original works of art.

“A LASTING EXPRESSION OF THE CITY”

Dr. Utkan Boyacıoğlu, who teaches the ‘Paris, Fashion and Impressionist Painting’ course and is the project coordinator, said, “In our ‘City and Impressionism’ project, we want students not only to observe the city but also to make sense of and interpret it. This collaboration with ODAK Izmir concretely demonstrated that art can be a means of expression about the city and social life.”

SCENES FROM LIFE

Stating that Impressionism is based on pieces of daily life, the atmosphere of the city, and plays of light and shadow, Dr. Boyacıoğlu said, “The most important feature of this art movement is painting scenes from life with unique perspectives. In this course, we addressed the multi-layered structure of Izmir. Our students reflected the dynamic and multicultural texture of our city through their own impressions.”

WORKS TO BE EXHIBITED

Dr. Boyacıoğlu stated the following: “The resulting works will be exhibited in areas designated by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, primarily at the Elhamra Stage. Students will also express the feelings evoked by these images in short texts; which will be placed beneath the artworks.”

DIGITAL BADGE TO BE AWARDED

The project, which aims to increase young people's awareness of urban rights, coexistence, and cultural heritage, will also feature the students’ photographs, drawings, and short videos produced during the event in an upcoming exhibition titled ‘Traces of Coexistence’ at Izmir University of Economics. Furthermore, students who meet the requirements in the event, structured as a micro-credential, will be awarded a digital badge by the IUE Office of Micro-Credentials.