Istanbul Foundation for Culture & Arts

One of the most important supporters of the arts in Istanbul, the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV) is an independent, non-profit organization founded in 1973 by 17 businessmen and art appreciators under the leadership of Dr. Nejat F. Eczacıbaşı. Responsible for the Istanbul Biennial, which was established in 1987, and the Istanbul Film Festival and Theatre Festival, which were both established in 1989. With the International Istanbul Jazz Festival initiated in 1994, the International Istanbul Festival changed its name to the International Istanbul Music Festival, and IKSV thus became the organizer of five international arts festivals. Deniz Palas Sadi Konuralp Caddesi No. 5, Şişhane; P: (0212) 334 07 00 

Turkish Cultural Foundation

The Turkish Cultural Foundation is a non-profit organization that aims to promote and preserve Turkish heritage and culture, support education and research, and take an active role in building cultural bridges between Turkey and other countries. Workshops and talks are held regularly (see their website for updated information). Cumhuriyet Caddesi No. 17/1, Taksim; P: (0212) 297 40 38 

Austrian Cultural Center

The Austrian Cultural Center supports and develops many cultural activities with the aim of strengthening the bonds between Turkish and Austrian artists and scientists. Located within a historical building in Yeniköy, the center features a gallery space and a ballroom where concerts, exhibitions, poetry readings, seminars, and workshops are regularly held. Köybaşı Caddesi No.44, Yeniköy; P: (0212) 363 84 15 

Beşiktaş Cultural Center

Founded in 1995 by Turkey’s famous actor/author Yılmaz Erdoğan and producer Necati Akpınar, BKM is one of the leading cultural centers in Istanbul. BKM stages one-man shows as well as large ensembles and plays. After the founding of BKM Film, the center has been involved in TV and cinema productions; and with BKM Organization, the center has been organizing concerts, performances, festivals, panel meetings, and seminars. Has Fırın Sokak No. 75, Beşiktaş; P: (0212) 260 11 56 

French Cultural Center

The French Cultural Center (also known as Institut Français) aims to promote French culture by offering French language classes and acting as a resource for modern France. The educational and cultural events and activities of the center include performances (such as dance and theatre), film screenings, and participation at various festivals. The center’s library provides over 23,000 books, magazines, CD and DVDs, and newspapers in French. İstiklal Caddesi No. 4, Taksim; P: (0212) 393 81 11 

KÜSAV

KÜSAV, the Foundation for Fine Arts and Cultural Heritage, is a charitable trust that promotes national and worldwide interest in Turkey’s traditions in order to preserve Turkey’s artistic and cultural heritage. Küsav’s activities and events include exhibitions, lecture programs, and tours that are motivated by the desire to increase art appreciation and promote cultural activities in Turkey. Köybaşı Caddesi No. 24-26, Yeniköy; P:  (0212) 262 34 33 

Yapı Kredi Cultural Center

Yapı Kredi Cultural Center offers nearly 400 activities each year, including exhibitions (painting, sculpture, photography to name a few); performances; festival events; cinema, theater and music discussions; concerts; and meetings. Some of the center’s events take place at various venues throughout Istanbul. Istiklal Caddesi No. 285, Beyoğlu; P: (0212) 252 47 00 

İş Sanat Cultural Center

Since its foundation in 2000, the Iş Sanat Cultural Center has been host to numerous musical and stage performances including such renowned names as Yo-Yo Ma, Charlie Haden, Gidon Kremer, Dianne Reeves, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Dave Brubeck, and many more. Apart from showcasing classical music, jazz, traditional Turkish music and world music performances, theatre productions and poetry readings are also held. İş Towers, 4 Levent; P: (0212) 316 10 83