Istanbul Airport Unveils 37.7-Meter Kinetic Sculpture: A New Symbol of Art and Aviation
Istanbul, April 7, 2026 – Istanbul Airport, a hub for culture and art, has unveiled a monumental 37.7-meter-high kinetic sculpture titled ‘Untitled’ by artist Hayri Karay. This two-part, dynamic artwork, a winning piece from the 2nd İGA ART Art Projects Competition, now stands prominently at the heart of the airport.
The unveiling ceremony was held at Istanbul Airport and saw the participation of notable figures, including Doç. Dr. M. İlker Haktankaçmaz, Civil Administrator of Istanbul Airport; Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of İGA Istanbul Airport; artist Hayri Karay; and various prominent personalities from the art and culture world, alongside İGA executives.
‘A New Symbol at the Intersection of Aviation and Art’
Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of İGA Istanbul Airport, expressed pride that artist Hayri Karay dedicated this project to the 100th anniversary of the Republic. “With this sculpture, realized under the İGA ART umbrella, we are thrilled to host another groundbreaking art event. This colossal artwork, not only by its size but also by its profound meaning, stands as a new symbol at the intersection of aviation and art. We have brought together the high dynamism of our terminal with the serenity of art at this point. This structure offers a participatory art experience, fully open to the viewer’s interpretation, feelings, and perspective,” Bilgen stated.
About the ‘Untitled’ Sculpture
Hayri Karay’s ‘Untitled’ sculpture, standing at 37.7 meters, is a kinetic artwork composed of two distinct, moving parts. It visually narrates the diversity of Anatolian culture and ethnographic sociality through an interplay of light, shadow, and form. Combining the steadfast power of steel with the elegance of light, the sculpture is centrally located within Istanbul Airport. Its dynamic structure invites viewers on an aesthetic journey.
The mirrored surfaces of the artwork reflect the dynamism of the terminal, creating an infinite perspective. The relationship between light and shadow serves as a fundamental constructive element of the piece, transforming the artwork into a continuous yet ever-changing narrative based on the viewer’s position and movement.
This initiative underscores Istanbul Airport’s commitment to integrating art and culture into the travel experience, offering passengers a unique visual and intellectual engagement. The sculpture is expected to become a landmark, enhancing the airport’s reputation as a cultural destination.
The İGA ART Art Projects Competition aims to support contemporary art and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work to a global audience. Karay’s ‘Untitled’ is a testament to this vision, embodying both artistic innovation and cultural significance.
The artwork’s strategic placement ensures maximum visibility, allowing thousands of daily travelers to experience its grandeur and intricate details. Its kinetic nature means that the sculpture is constantly evolving, offering a different experience with each viewing.
The project is part of a broader strategy by İGA to transform Istanbul Airport into more than just a transit point, but a destination that celebrates Turkish heritage and contemporary artistic expression. This commitment to cultural enrichment is evident in the scale and ambition of the ‘Untitled’ sculpture.
Further details regarding the artist’s inspiration and the engineering marvel behind the kinetic elements are expected to be shared in future cultural programs at the airport.
Source: DHA
