Are we not excited? 2024’s first exhibition opens its doors

Kıraathane’s first exhibition of 2024, “Herkes Heyecanlanır Sanmıştım” / “I Thought Everybody Would Be Excited,” opened its doors last Friday, January 12. Indeed, we are excited to host this unique collection of vignettes and other drawings by Nazım Hikmet Richard Dikbaş, whose gaze unravels the everyday and often unexpressed human condition. Artist, academic, and translator extraordinaire, Dikbaş is also a devoted human rights defender who has dedicated time and energy to solidarize with Saturday Mothers and Academics for Peace, among other civil rights groups. “Herkes Heyecanlanır Sanmıştım” at the Kıraathane Istanbul Literature House’s premises is his first exhibition in seven years.

What excites us? What brings about a state of calm? Not losing our excitement and curiosity is essential to keep being creative, Dikbaş tells us. He encourages us to remain passionate about life, even in the face of injustice or evil. Some of these portraits may sound wise, others witty, carefree, or even a bit pretentious, but they always speak freely. Whether they make us smile from ear to ear or reflect introspectively, we embrace their honesty and feel grateful that they have chosen to express their thoughts over apathy.

Meet these faces of everyday humans, engage with their often-flawed reasoning, and contemplate Dikbaş’s distinctive style that fluctuates between mischievous wisdom and seasoned naivete. The exposition will be open to visitors until Saturday, February 16, every day except Sundays between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.