Turkish Airlines and Refik Anadol present “Inner Portrait” in Türkiye 

The documentary showcasing the transformation of the experiences of four people from four different continents who have never travelled into a work of art was also screened for the first time.

Premiered at Art Basel in Basel, Turkish Airlines’ art project with media artist Refik Anadol, Inner Portrait, featuring captivating portraits that reflect the inner world of individuals, is meeting art enthusiasts in Türkiye for the first time. Inner Portrait will welcome visitors at Istanbul Atatürk Cultural Centre (AKM) until December 1, 2024.

Created in collaboration with the internationally renowned media artist, Refik Anadol, the project delves into profound desire to travel and its impact on human biology, as seen through the impressive experiences of four individuals from four different continents who have never traveled before. Additionally, the project’s documentary, directed by BAFTA-awarded Jennifer Peedom and cinematographed by Renan Ozturk, focusing on the impact of traveling on human biology through the stories of four characters was also screened at the launch, and it will also meet the audiences soon.

Commenting on the Inner Portrait debut in Türkiye, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Ahmet Bolat said: “Inner Portrait highlights that traveling is not only a physical journey, but it is also a profound experience that transforms a person’s inner world. As the airline flying to more countries than any other, we are committed to connecting the world through the universal language of art and culture. Within the framework of this mission, we are proud to be a brand that supports art at every point, building bridges with different cultures through art.”

Refik Anadol stated: “The Inner Portrait project is a journey that expresses the change traveling creates in the human mind and body at the intersection of science, life, and imagination. I am very excited to be able to present this work to the audience at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM), one of Istanbul’s most important cultural centres. The project aims to develop both our imagination and the way we perceive the world by bringing together a vast data archive consisting of the biological responses of the traveling participants with art.”

Within the scope of the project, 4 people from 4 different continents who had never travelled were selected. Their data were recorded before departure and after arrival at their destinations. Brazilian Tuikuru, an Amazon native, explored the bustling streets of Tokyo, while Kenyan Esther explored the rich history of Istanbul. Sahar, who lives in Australia, embarked on a journey among the ancient wonders of Göbeklitepe and Cappadocia, while Icelandic Sigurbjörn experienced the enchanting beauty of Jordan.

The data collection process of the project was carried out with Neuroelectrics, one of the world’s leading companies in neuroscience, using EEG sensors and advanced technology devices such as Empatica Watch, collecting the biological and neurobiological data of the passengers during their experiences. This data was later transformed into a work of art by Refik Anadol and his team.

Inner Portrait, a concrete reflection of Turkish Airlines’ determination to encourage cultural change and innovation, involving 220 people from all over the world in its production, reveals the transformative power of travel. Inner Portrait will be exhibited in other parts of the world in the upcoming period, and its documentary will be available to audiences on digital platforms in 2025.