Hosted by Goethe-Institut Istanbul, the ‘Ortak Yerde / Raum für ein Wir’ exhibition was inspired by the shared cultural values between Germany and Turkey.
As Onaranlar Kulübü, this project we specially designed for Goethe-Institut Istanbul offered a contemporary interpretation of cultural dialogue and collective making. Throughout the exhibition, the historical and social ties connecting Germany and Turkey were reimagined through a contemporary design language. The forms representing these connections were produced using 3D printing technology and 21st-century production techniques, creating not only an aesthetic narrative but also a conceptual one. In this way, the exhibition became more than just a visual experience; it served as a tangible expression of intercultural dialogue and coming together on common ground.
One of the most inspiring elements of this process was the ‘Der, Die, Das’ characters at the heart of the exhibition. Each representing cornerstones of the German language, these characters created playful encounters throughout the exhibition space, reminding visitors of the fluidity of language and culture.
‘Ortak Yerde’ opened to the public on July 11, 2025, at Goethe-Institut Istanbul, offering a platform where the shared cultural values between Germany and Turkey were reinterpreted through art, design, and technology.
Project Management: Aytekin Gezici, Mervenaz Çiçekdiken, Ufuk Emin Akengin
Creative Direction: Mervenaz Çiçekdiken
Design Team: @allyceeeee, @kaandima
Production Coordination: Aytekin Gezici
3D Printing Lead: Berkay Okur
Post-Production & Finishing: Burak Ayazoğlu
Communications Management: Mervenaz Çiçekdiken, Zeynep Hazal Tulgar
Photos: Buğra Sarıaltun
