Homage to working children
Koray Ozgen created this “monument-object”, for a commission in the context of Istanbul, 2010 European Capital of Culture. Seven contemporary Turkish designers were invited to create objects on the theme “Istanbul Otherwise”.

Without a name / Koray Ozgen
When set out to think with an Istanbul Otherwise” approach, the shoe shine box can lead the designer to different concepts. Literally, this object suggests those large shiny boxes that tourists coming to Istanbul are accustomed to see in the lobbies of grand hotels. Yet, as a matter of fact, as we roam the sidewalks or squares of Istanbul, we often come across children who shine shoes using small boxes and brushes made suitably for their small hands. In such context, the designer may express him-/herself through an object, by detaching that object from its contemporary cultural marketing typology with an intervention that establishes a link between the past and the present. One way to cherish in our minds these shoe shine boxes that are identified with children working as shoe shiners deprived of their homes, schools, and non-existent toys during significant periods of their lives, may be to turn them into “monument-objects”. Objects which represent the possibility of a life equal to the respect they deserve as human beings and an “Istanbul otherwise” where they would not have to shine shoes. Objects we can even install in places in Istanbul that have witnessed this “sadness”.

www.istanbulotherwise

Koray Ozgen designed the visual identity and scenography of the “Istanbul Contrast” exhibition which took place within in the framework of the Turkish Cultural Season in France.
www.en.istanbul2010.org

Located at “Hall des Maréchaux” of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the scenography of the exhibition had a prior engagement to respect the historical and prestigious nature of the setting. The scenography made a basic use of paper and light to put on stage the collection of the fashion designers Dice Kayek inspired by the multiple facets of the city of Istanbul. The major elements of the scenography were lighted walls enlighting Istanbul themed photographs by S. Kösemen, podiums upon which dressmaker forms and digital information panels were installed, lighted columns carrying the exhibition information and special lighting effects. Rose flavoured lokoums were served to guests and fresh tulip decorations installed to reinforce the multi-sensorial effect along with background tunes from Burhan Öcal.

Ays tumblers

Ambiente Trends2010

Ays tumblers designed by Koray Ozgen have been selected for the Ambiente Trends 2010 exhibition in Frankfurt.