Manifesta purposely strives to keep its distance from what are often seen as the dominant centres of artistic production, instead seeking fresh and fertile terrain for the mapping of a new cultural topography.
Mehtap Baydu, TR
Cuma, 2016/2018. Machine-woven carpet 200 × 300 cm.
Mehtap Baydu’s work invites audiences to navigate the fluidity of boundaries and engage in experiences far removed from the routines of daily life. In her practice, participants occupy roles such as visitor, observer or collaborator, which evolve organically throughout the artistic process. These cross-cultural encounters confront the subjects of politics, identity and religion. Baydu is known for her interdisciplinary performances and installations, which explore gender roles and sensitive sociopolitical themes within multicultural contexts. By integrating the audience into her live work, she challenges them through the use of symbolic objects and staged scenarios, often using sculpture and photography.