Odeabank O’Art Presents CANAN’s Hayal-i Alem Exhibition to Art Enthusiasts​

O’Art, Odeabank’s art platform, is celebrating the start of the new season with a major exhibition. Showcasing valuable works that emphasize gender equality by CANAN, an artist who describes herself as a “storyteller,” the “Hayal-i Alem” (Imaginary Realm) exhibition will be open to art enthusiasts at Akaretler Sıraevler No. 55 from October 7 to November 20. Following the conclusion of the physical event, the exhibition will be available on the Odeabank website starting November 20.

On this occasion, O’Art, Odeabank’s art platform hosting representatives of contemporary art since 2015, will host art enthusiasts at Akaretler Sıraevler No.: 55. At the exhibition featuring never-before-seen works by artist CANAN, a QR code system has been set up to allow visitors to listen to fairy tale recordings in the artist’s own voice.

CANAN commented on the exhibition Imaginary Realm: “As a feminist artist who believes in gender equality, I feel that fairy tales require a unique analysis. Through the Imaginary Realm exhibition, I aimed to present a new perspective on fairy tales. I believe that sincere interpretations of art will radiate the same warmth to those who experience it. This exhibition has love, laughter, and fairy tales. Additionally, scent is one of the most important key elements. Therefore, the exhibition will engage the audience's diverse senses. I’m thrilled about my exhibition, Imaginary Realm, which draws inspiration from miniature art, reverse glass paintings, and traditional handicrafts. I eagerly look forward to presenting it to art enthusiasts.”

CANAN said the following about the creative process behind the works in the exhibition: “I’ve been working on symbols and mythology for the past three years. I believe that mythology and fairy tales intuitively convey profound messages to our collective subconscious. The exhibition consists of figures from fairy tales and mythology. I believe that Imaginary Realm processes the world of images in the same way that fairy tales do. Imagination predominantly symbolizes our carefree, childlike sense of freedom. At the same time, the world of symbols unveils its beauty. The exhibition's installations feature figures from mythology I craft new stories and characters by reimagining mythological figures shaped by the collective subconscious over time. These figures are adorned with scales, sequins, wings, and scents. I aim to engage multiple senses simultaneously. We can define these as large 3D miniature sculptures or miniature installations. Incorporating miniature aesthetics and utilizing stamps, sequins, and embroidery are crucial for aesthetic purposes. The exhibition will feature music and fairy tales. Art enthusiasts will be able to explore the exhibition by listening to the fairy tales in the rooms on their own smartphones.”

Begüm Güney, the curator of the Imaginary Realm exhibition, remarked: “In this exhibition, CANAN revisits the roots of storytelling, creating a dream world where she places every myth and image from her personal universe, transforming them into mythological figures inspired by the fairy tales and legends of her childhood. This world reflects imagination onto reality through winged horses, disembodied angels, and surreal half-animal, half-human creatures inhabiting both the skies and the earth. The intricate visuality is crafted through delicate embroidery, scales, sequins, and beads intricately sewn onto shiny fabrics and tulle. Colorful feathers adorn the bodies and magnificent wings, complemented by ornate metal accessories, evoking a symbolic Eastern mysticism that celebrates traditional miniature aesthetics. Defined as 3D miniature sculptures enhanced with music, sounds, and scents to stimulate all senses, and adorned with dried flowers and plants, these figures emit delightful fragrances throughout the space. Canan’s laughter and narrations complement the immersive experience.”

The piece titled “Ahu” promises to evoke the scent of roses, fulfilling the audience’s desires, while a 12-meter snake transforms the viewer’s fear into profound beauty. Directly opposite “Ahu” stands an installation named “I Know You by Your Smell.” Among other captivating installation pieces, the “Magic” series, featuring 71 miniatures, will be presented for the first time to art enthusiasts.