In November 2015, Turkishceramics and the UK’s leading weekly architectural magazine The Architects’ Journal took a group of British architects to Istanbul and Edirne on a research trip to study the work of Mimar Sinan. The research has resulted in a book published on 5th May and an exhibition at the London’s Building Centre until 10th June 2016. Sinan: The First Starchitect gives an insight into the world of Mimar Sinan, architect to the sultans of the Ottoman Empire and the maestro behind the skyline of historic Istanbul, with contributions from leading and emerging contemporary architects and expert writers.
Sinan, a contemporary of Palladio and Michelangelo, defined the look and feel of historic Istanbul, with its unforgettable skyline of domes and minarets, but he is also renowned for his engineering skills, and the bridges and aqueducts he designed. Unlike so many of his contemporaries however, many of his buildings are still in everyday use, serving both new and old communities in the ancient imperial city. Yet despite his increasing relevance today – the longevity and adaptability of his buildings are the essence of sustainable urban design – Sinan remains undermentioned.
The exhibition features research projects conducted by the participating architecture practices; Ian Ritchie Architects, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, DSDHA, Reiach and Hall Architects, Sam Jacob Studio and Bureau de Change.
Bahadir Kayan, Chairman of Turkishceramics said: “On behalf of the Turkish ceramic industry, I am proud to present this exhibition which explores the world and work of Mimar Sinan, the architectural visionary of the Ottoman Empire. It’s been fascinating to see how 21st Century British architects have responded creatively to the work the 16th Century master. I hope that the exhibition will stimulate many debates and discussions about the value of Sinan’s life and work in the UK and beyond.”
Open to the public: Wednesday 18 May 2016