About the Biennial

The Istanbul Children and Youth Art Biennial is an independent art and education organisation where children and young people aged 4 to 18 can exhibit their artistic work and develop original projects. The biennial aims to unlock creative potential, bring young people together with art and create a space for cultural exchange.

Following Creativity, Towards the Future Through Art

Launched in 2010 under the leadership of the Palet Culture, Art and Education Association, the Istanbul Children and Youth Art Biennial is an independent art and education organisation that aims to create a space for learning and making for children and young people, closely connected with contemporary art. It supports people aged 4 to 18 in discovering their creative potential, expressing themselves freely through art and sharing their work with the public. Through workshops, stage performances, meetings with artists, talks, panels and guided tours, the biennial turns children from spectators into active makers. Run in collaboration with artists, educators, volunteers and institutions, this multifaceted event seeks to inspire new generations through the transformative power of art and to make a lasting contribution to society.

Who We Are

Coming Together for a Creative Future

We are a volunteer group of artists, educators, academics, designers, business people, scientists, NGO workers, civil servants and student representatives who came together in 2010 with the aim of creating the right climate for creative new generations to grow. We founded the Palet Culture, Art and Education Association and work in the fields of culture, art, education and the environment. We work together with a wide network of NGOs, public bodies and local governments to bring out the creative potential of children and young people. We create the right conditions for raising the industrialists, scientists, artists and leaders of the future, encourage collective production and help young people create original projects.

Our Goals

To create environments where young people can discover and develop their creative potential, and to raise thoughtful, questioning individuals equipped with an education in the arts; to bring together children from different cultures through art, and to contribute to the development of society through the universal language of art.

Unlocking Creative Potential

To develop children’s and young people’s creative thinking by supporting their artistic work, and to give them the opportunity to express their own ideas and use art as a language.

Strengthening the Link Between Art and Education

To use art education as a tool that strengthens young people’s life skills, and to present art not only as a form of expression but also as a field where important skills such as problem-solving, self-confidence and critical thinking develop.

Creating a Space for Cultural Exchange

To encourage multiculturalism by bringing together works by children from different regions and cultures, and to share children’s artistic perspectives with the world by creating a global space for exchange.

Making Art Education Accessible

To ensure that every child has access to high-quality art education, and to help build an education system that uses the power of art to contribute to Turkey’s social and artistic development.

Building Sustainable Art and Education Policies

To develop innovative, sustainable policies in art and education, and to design participatory, transparent and innovative processes in areas such as teacher training, class hours, materials, learning environments and the curriculum.

The Biennial in Numbers

Totals for the seven biennials held between 2010 and 2024:

• 35,147 children
• 2,742 projects
• 3,700 schools
• 8,984 teachers
• 350,000 visitors
• 43+ countries
• 57+ provinces

Our Mission

Shaping the Future Through Art

As the Palet Culture, Art and Education Association, our mission is to create an environment for raising creative new generations who grow up with art. We help young people discover their artistic potential, develop original projects and make the world a better place through art. By using art as a tool for social change and development, we aim to give artistic and cultural values a place in society.

Support the Future Through Art

Bank Details for Donations

AKBANK – Bahçekapı Branch

• TRY IBAN: TR39 0004 6000 0488 8000 2119 59
• USD IBAN: TR60 0004 6000 0400 1000 2119 60
• EUR IBAN: TR10 0004 6000 0403 6000 2119 61

Take Action, Let’s Shape the Future Together

Take a step to support new generations growing up with art. Your donation helps children and young people discover their creative potential. Let’s open a brighter path together for the artists and leaders of the future!