Remembering Atatürk in Bodrum on 10 November: His Love of Art and Design

Every 10 November, amid the sound of the sea and the wind in Bodrum, we come together in remembrance. We honour Atatürk with respect, gratitude and longing. Remembering him means more than looking back: it means carrying forward the Republic’s spirit of curiosity, courage to create and belief in the future.

Atatürk saw the arts as an important part of a society’s development. He described the fine arts broadly, including music, painting, sculpture, literature, architecture and dance. His belief in the importance of art was reflected in efforts to support artists and develop cultural institutions.

Atatürk’s appreciation of art: creating, thinking and renewing

For Atatürk, art was not only about appreciating beauty. It was also a way for society to express itself and move forward. He supported the development of disciplines from painting and music to architecture and literature as part of the vision for a modern society. His interest in the arts reflected the important place of culture and creativity in the Republic’s development.

Design is closely connected to this idea. Designing a space, an object or a visual identity brings function, aesthetics and culture together. Atatürk’s inclusion of architecture among the fine arts reminds us how design connects with everyday life and a community’s identity. It also speaks to the value of welcoming new ideas while drawing inspiration from local character.

Traces of design and craftsmanship in Bodrum

Bodrum’s distinctive architecture, colours, coastal life and culture of making are a rich source of inspiration for design. Every handmade ceramic piece, textile, piece of jewellery or illustration carries the maker’s idea, skill and point of view. Sharing the work of designers and artists is one way to make local creativity visible.

At Pafta’m Bodrum, bringing together work by designers from different disciplines lets us appreciate this range of creative expression every day. Behind each piece is effort, an idea and a story of its own. Remembering Atatürk’s regard for art also means making room for these stories and supporting creative work.

On 10 November, remembrance means keeping values alive

Remembering Atatürk means preserving the place of reason, education, independent thought and art in our lives. In Bodrum, as throughout Türkiye, we pause on 10 November to pay our respects and remember his vision of a modern society strengthened by creativity and culture.

We remember Atatürk with love, respect and gratitude. We continue to honour his legacy by learning, creating, designing and valuing the arts.

From Bodrum, with respect and remembrance on 10 November.