Yunus Emre Enstitüsü - London

Iznik Ceramic Painting Workshop
2024-04-04 14:00 - 17:00 UTC
Join us for an exciting Iznik Ceramic Painting Workshop* organised by Yunus Emre Institute London in collaboration with the Queen Mary Turkish Society, where you’ll delve into the rich history of traditional İznik ceramic/çini patterns, guided by the expertise of renowned artist Nagihan Seymour.
Date: Thursday, 4 April 2024
Time: 2:00-5:00 pm (UK time)
Instructor: Nagihan Seymour
Location: 10 Maple Street W1T 5HA (Nearest tube stations: Warren Street and Goodge Street)
***This workshop is ONLY for students and QMUL Turkish Society members.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a lover of traditional arts, or simply curious about Ottoman culture, this course offers a perfect opportunity for exploration.
During this face-to-face workshop, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of İznik tile patterns and gain insights into the origins of İznik pottery. Named after the town of İznik in western Anatolia, İznik pottery holds profound significance in Ottoman art and architecture.
Under the guidance of our expert instructor, you’ll be introduced to the materials and techniques used in İznik style painting, utilizing authentic ceramic paints sourced from Turkiye. Throughout the workshop, participants will receive personalized feedback as they paint their own tile (10×10 cm) in the İznik style.
Upon completion, your works will be glazed and fired in a kiln by the instructor. Attendees can later collect their finished pieces from the Yunus Emre Institute London, adding a tangible outcome to your artistic exploration.
All necessary materials will be provided by the Institute, allowing you to focus solely on your creative journey.
Please note that the workshop is conducted in English, with occasional Turkish terminology used. To ensure safety, participants are advised to avoid wearing loose clothing, especially large cuffs and neckties. Additionally, while every care is taken in firing your work, ceramics can be subject to cracking during the process.
Please be advised that filming and/or photography will be taking place at the event for the purposes of archiving, marketing, and all other publications. By entering this event, you consent to the Yunus Emre Institute taking photographs and videos and using them.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the artistry of İznik ceramics firsthand! Reserve your spot today and unlock your creativity in the captivating world of İznik Cini Painting. Limited spaces are available, so secure your place now!
IMPORTANT! Please understand, whilst every care is taken in firing your work, ceramics can be subject to cracking during firing.
If you would like to pay by bank transfer or have any questions, please direct them to us on londra@yee.org.tr

Exhibition: Türkiye Century
2024-04-08 15:00 - 2024-04-30 17:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Join us at the “Türkiye Century” exhibition to explore a curated display of Türkiye’s cultural and natural treasures. The exhibition opens to the public on 8 April at Yunus Emre Insittue London’s art gallery and will be available for viewing until the end of this month.

Open Iftar 2024 x Trafalgar Square
2024-04-08 20:00 - 21:30 | Trafalgar Square, Trafalgar Sq, London, WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom
Join us for a memorable evening at Open Iftar 2024 in Trafalgar Square, the finale of a series of events that bring communities together to share in the spirit of Ramadan. This year, we’re honoured to host the event in one of London’s most iconic locations, offering a unique opportunity for people of all backgrounds to break their fast in unity and celebrate the values of empathy, generosity, and togetherness.
As the day ends, Trafalgar Square will come alive with the sounds of conversation and the aroma of shared meals, symbolizing the essence of community and the breaking of barriers. Supported by Republic of Türkiye Directorate of Communications and Yunus Emre Institute London, this event is not just about enjoying delicious food but also about engaging in meaningful dialogue and experiencing the rich cultural tapestry that Ramadan brings to the forefront.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a tradition that has been celebrated for years, bringing together people from diverse cultures and faiths. Open Iftar 2024 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ramadan and its ability to foster a sense of global community.

Sebze: Vegetarian Recipes from my Turkish Kitchen | Book Launch & Signing
2024-04-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Yunus Emre Institute London is delighted to host an evening with Özlem Warren for the unveiling of her new cookbook, “SEBZE: Vegetarian Recipes from My Turkish Kitchen.” This gathering is part of our ongoing arts and culture lecture series.
Join us on the 17th of April at 7 PM for a book signing with Özlem Warren, a celebrated authority on Turkish cuisine. Her latest book, “SEBZE” invites you into the world of Turkish vegetarian cooking, offering a variety of easy-to-follow, delicious recipes that are perfect for everyday meals.
This event is a unique chance to engage with Özlem, learn about the influences of Anatolian cuisine, and discover how Turkish culinary traditions can be incorporated into vegetarian dishes. While there won’t be a food tasting, you’ll leave with plenty of inspiration to create your own Turkish feasts at home.
Özlem Warren, is an awarded Turkish culinary expert, Author, Cookery Class Instructor and Food Consultant. She has taught at prestigious cooking schools both in the US and the UK such as Özlem Warren is a respected teacher of Turkish food who has taught at Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Cooking Schools and Central Market Cooking Schools in the US, and Kent Cookery School and Divertimenti Cookery School in the UK. Her first cookbook, “Özlem’s Turkish Table,” has already garnered international praise, winning the 2020 Gourmand Award in Food Heritage. Now, she brings us “SEBZE,” a treasure trove of vegetarian recipes that embody the spirit of Turkish cooking.
Turkish cuisine, particularly from the Anatolian region, is a tapestry of flavors influenced by a rich history and a fusion of cultures. It’s known for its hearty stews, vibrant salads, and an array of dishes that celebrate the region’s bountiful produce. “SEBZE” captures this essence, offering a modern take on traditional dishes that are not only nourishing but also a joy to create.
This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet Özlem Warren, gain insight into the art of Turkish cooking, and learn how to incorporate these vegetarian dishes into your own culinary repertoire. The flavors and stories behind them will surely inspire your home cooking.
Admission is FREE but registration is ESSENTIAL.
This talk forms part of the Arts & Culture Lecture Series organised by Yunus Emre Institute London since 2017.
Please be advised that filming and/or photography will be taking place at the event for the purposes of archiving, marketing, and all other publications. By entering this event, you consent to the Yunus Emre Institute taking photographs and videos and using them.

Young Scholars: A Century of Urban Transformation: Istanbul’s Evolution
2024-04-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Yunus Emre Institute London is delighted to announce its upcoming Young Scholar Seminar Series talk: “A Century of Urban Transformation: Istanbul’s Evolution “, by Mahmud Sami Karahasanoğlu. The talk will take place on Thursday 18th April 2024 at 7 pm UK Time.
A Century of Urban Transformation: Istanbul’s Evolution
In the wake of Turkiye’s hard-fought independence, a nation rallied to catch up with the industrial age. The cities, residential areas, industrial structures, and infrastructure were unprepared, ill-equipped for the task at hand. Not only were the plans incomplete, but the country also faced financial constraints. In pursuit of industrial progress, Turkiye made a collective decision to engage all its citizens.
Emergence of New Districts: Overnight, new districts sprang forth, fuelled by necessity. Haphazard urbanization spread. As industrialisation progressed, the once-historical visage of the cities began to blur. Simultaneously, policymakers and legislators worked to address the movement’s shortcomings. However, the primary motivation behind enforcing building codes often encouraged by electoral goals.
Slums to Gated Communities: Over time, cities sprouted slums that would later give way to apartment complexes that were built without any design oversight. This transformation led to a shift in urbanization, with each election cycle adding another layer and storey to these evolving structures. Over the years, crafted city plans gave way to a transformation. Apartments stepped aside and became gated communities and high-rise structures. The cityscape shifted at a pace unforeseen, reshaping not only the physical contours but also the very essence of our urban character, face, and culture. The very aspirations of transforming urban spaces into a better, nature-friendly, and livable city abused by politicians, citizens, and bureaucrats.
Istanbul’s Tale: This century-old story etched into the very fabric of Turkiye’s major cities. Today, our spotlight falls on Istanbul. We’ll delve into its evolution, uncovering the forces that shaped it and the ongoing efforts to safeguard its essence—the face, character, and culture. As we explore Istanbul’s story, we’ll also cast our gaze toward futuristic global solutions aimed at preserving not only Istanbul but all historical cities which face similar threads.
Beyond the Bosphorus, we cast our gaze toward other global cities. Could this tale repeat itself elsewhere? Might its trajectory echo across interconnected urban landscapes? And perhaps, even in London?
Join us as we unravel the threads of time, weaving a tapestry that binds us all.

Mahmud Sami Karahasanoğlu received his BA in architecture from Yeditepe University in Istanbul. He studied passive solar architecture at Bahçeşehir University, where he obtained his master’s degree in the performance analysis of passive solar buildings. Mahmud Sami has worked as an architect in Istanbul, Turkey, and Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. He has also taught classes at the university on passive architecture and architectural design projects. He is focused on political engagements that shape city planning and has taken roles in non-governmental organizations focused on social sociology and politics. Currently, Mahmud Sami works as an architect at CEVV and is pursuing a PhD in city planning at Sabahattin Zaim University in Istanbul.
Date: Thursday 18th April 2024
Time: 7 pm
Venue: Yunus Emre Institute in London, 10 Maple Street, London, W1T 5HA
Traditional Turkish Refreshments will be served.
Admission is FREE but registration*** is ESSENTIAL via Eventbrite.

This talk forms part of the Young Scholar Seminar Series organised by Yunus Emre Institute in London.

In Short Europe: Best of Best x The Silent Route by Merve Çirişoğlu
2024-04-20 11:30 - 17:00 | Glasgow Film Theatre, 12 Rose St, Glasgow, G3 6RB, United Kingdom
Experience “The Silent Route” an emotionally gripping animated short by award-winning director Merve Cirisoglu at the 6th edition of In Short, Europe. Proud supporters of the festival, we’re thrilled to announce Türkiye’s participation. Join us in Glasgow on 20-21 April & in London from 26-28 April.
Strand 5 – Kids Animation: Why’s the Sky Blue?
Saturday 20 April, 11:30 am, Cinema 1, Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow
Saturday 27 April, 2:00 pm, Ciné Lumière, Institut français London
A playful selection of children’s animation exploring our relationship to the outside and everything it brings us; big gardens to run around in, animals to befriend, and the beautiful display of sound, colour, and texture.
The Silent Route, dir. Merve Cirisoglu,Türkiye, 2024, Animation, 8 mins, Age Rating PG
The loving protection of a mother keeps a baby away from danger.
Overview

Every child attending a Take 2 screening receives a free ticket for themselves and one free ticket for their accompanying adult. Free tickets are only issued on the day of the screening. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Additional tickets and/or tickets purchased in advance cost £6 each.
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Screening as part of In Short, Europe: Best of the Best.
A playful selection of children’s animations exploring our relationship to the outside and everything it brings us; big gardens to run around in, animals to befriend, and the beautiful display of sound, colour, and texture.
Luce & the rock (U)
Dir. Britt Raes, Belgium-Flanders and Germany, 2022
Animation, 12 mins
Anger turns to love between Luce and a mischievous rock.
Suzie in the Garden (U)
Dir. Lucie Sunková, Czech Republic, 2022
Animation, 13 mins
Suzie loves to play in her garden, she takes care of the plants and watches them grow.
To be sisters
Dir. Anne-Sophie Gousset & Clément Céard, France, 2022
Animation, 7 mins
Two sisters create worlds of playful fun.
The Silent Route (PG)
Dir. Merve Cirisoglu, Türkiye, 2024,
Animation, 8 mins
The loving protection of a mother keeps a baby away from danger.
The Tornado Outside (U)
Dir. Maria Tomazou, Cyprus, 2023, Animation, 8 mins
Have you ever wondered what’s inside a tornado?

Eid in the Square 2024 x Yunus Emre Institute London
2024-04-20 12:00 - 18:00 | Trafalgar Square, Trafalgar Sq, London, WC2N 5DS, United Kingdom
Join us at Trafalgar Square for Eid in the Square 2024 on 20 April. Visit Yunus Emre Institute London’s stall to immerse yourself in the vibrant Turkish culture, arts, and traditions. A day of celebration, learning, and community spirit awaits you.
Join us at Trafalgar Square on April 20th for “Eid in the Square 2024,” a vibrant celebration of culture and community spirit. The day will unfold with a series of events that bring the rich tapestry of Turkish traditions to the heart of London.
At the Yunus Emre Institute London’s stall, you’ll be transported to the crossroads of East and West with an immersive experience into Turkish arts and culture.
This is more than just a cultural exhibition; it’s a day of learning, sharing, and connecting with the community. Whether you’re joining to partake in the festivities, eager to learn about a new culture, or simply looking for a day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate Eid in a setting that’s as educational as it is entertaining. Be part of a memorable day that celebrates togetherness and cultural diversity.

The Oud: An Illustrated History | Book Launch & Talk & Concert
2024-04-25 19:00 - 21:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Yunus Emre Institute London is delighted to host an evening dedicated to the historical and musical journey of the oud. On April 25th at 7 PM, the institute will host an exclusive event that celebrates the publication of “The Oud: An Illustrated History” by Rachel Beckles Willson.
This is a multifaceted event featuring a book launch, a conversation on music’s cultural impact, and a concert that bridges history with contemporary artistry. The event will feature a talk by Rachel Beckles and Martin Stokes, who will share their perspectives on music’s role in shaping our world. The evening will conclude with a concert by Rachel Beckles and Umut Ekiz.
The Oud: An Illustrated History by Rachel Beckles Willson is a beautifully crafted work that offers readers an illustrated journey through the oud’s storied past. The narrative begins with the poignant myth of Lamak, a descendant of Cain, who, in his grief, created the first oud from his son’s remains, weaving a tale of music and mourning that gave birth to this iconic instrument.
The book delves into the oud’s evolution, its significance in various musical cultures, and its spread beyond its traditional boundaries to new regions and audiences. It is a story that encompasses the craftsmanship of the instrument, the diversity of its players, and its place in literature and storytelling. Beckles Willson’s scholarship brings to life the oud’s rich history and its vibrant present, making it accessible to both seasoned musicians and newcomers alike.
The evening will begin with a conversation featuring Martin Stokes and Rachel Beckles, who will explore the oud’s cultural influences and its role in connecting cultures. The discussion will provide a backdrop to the musical performance that follows, where Rachel Beckles and Umut Ekiz will treat attendees with their renditions on the oud, demonstrating its timeless allure.
About the Book:
According to a literary tradition of Iraq, the origin of the oud lies in the grief of Lamak, a descendent of Cain, son of Adam. When his 5-year-old son died, Lamak hung the boy’s limp body on a tree, and as time passed, he resolved to build a musical instrument from the remaining bones. He then played it, wept, and sang the first lament; his daughter Sila became an instrument maker. So the oud is a beautiful pear-shaped box, with neck and strings, that makes music, but it can also be a link to the world of storytelling that brings new voices into life.
Today the oud is one of the most important instruments in music cultures of the Middle East and North Africa, and while associated mainly with the Arab world, it is also played in Iran, Turkey and Greece. More recently it has spread into East Africa, numerous countries of Europe, Australia, the Americas, China and Japan.
This book explores the oud’s history and increasingly global lives today. It explores its varied construction over time and place, delves into its place in literature, and reveals its widespread repertoire and immensely diverse players.
“Beckles Willson’s comprehensive history draws upon folklore, design, and politics… The book is lavishly illustrated with ancient and contemporary images that help tell the story of this fascinating instrument.”
Booklist
“Extensively researched history with musical appeal… The text is enriched with illustrations, showing the oud’s variety and the cultural tapestry it weaves.”
The National
“Generously illustrated and embedded with QR codes… a rich cultural history and a thoughtful analysis of the shifting global dynamics that gave the oud its reach.” Publishers Weekly
The event is an invitation to experience the convergence of history, music, and narrative—a chance to understand the oud not just as an instrument but as a living legacy that continues to inspire and connect people across the world.
Note: Rachel Beckles Willson will donate all royalties from book sales to charities supporting child refugees, including those displaced in Gaza.
This talk forms part of the Arts & Culture Lecture Series organised by Yunus Emre Institute London since 2017.
Please be advised that filming and/or photography will be taking place at the event for the purposes of archiving, marketing, and all other publications. By entering this event, you consent to the Yunus Emre Institute taking photographs and videos and using them.

Special Workshop: Turkish & Japanese Tea Ceremony
2024-04-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Special Workshop: Turkish & Japanese Tea Ceremony
The Yunus Emre Institute London is delighted to host an evening of cultural exploration with Dr. Qayyim Naoki Yamamoto. This special workshop, “A Journey Through Cultures: Japanese Tea Ceremony & Talk on New Traditional Japanese Culture Inspired by Turkish Spirituality,” is scheduled for Friday, 26th April, at 7 pm.
Dr. Yamamoto will lead a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and share his insights on the spiritual connections between Turkish and Japanese cultures. Participants will have the opportunity to taste matcha tea and view a display of unique handicrafts that blend the artistic traditions of both countries.
This exclusive experience will be photographed by the renowned Peter Sanders, capturing the essence of this cultural exchange.
Dr. Qayyim Naoki Yamamoto, an Assistant Professor at Marmara University’s Graduate School of Turkic Studies, specializes in Ottoman Sufism and traditional Japanese culture. He is known for his work in translating Yunus Emre’s poetry into Japanese and his comparative studies of Turkish and Japanese cultures.
This event forms part of the Arts & Culture Lecture Series organised by Yunus Emre Institute London since 2017.
Please be advised that filming and/or photography will be taking place at the event for the purposes of archiving, marketing, and all other publications. By entering this event, you consent to the Yunus Emre Institute taking photographs and videos and using them.

TYS Turkish Proficiency Exam
2024-04-27 08:00 - 17:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
The Turkish Proficiency Exam (TYS) will be held on April 27, 2024, at Yunus Emre Insitute abroad and in Ankara and Istanbul in Turkey. Those learning Turkish or wishing to certify their level of Turkish proficiency are welcome to participate in this internationally conducted exam. Successful candidates will be awarded a Turkish Proficiency Certificate.
Don’t miss the TYS applications to certify your Turkish language level!
Exam Date: April 27, 2024
Application Dates: 4 – 31 March 2024
Applications can be made online at https://sinav.yee.org.tr
Please click here for TYS application fees.
Click here for Exam Centers.

Private Film Screening and Panel on Sustainable Filmmaking
2024-04-30 18:30 - 22:00 | Yunus Emre Institute London, 10 Maple Street London, London, London, W1T 5HA, United Kingdom
Join us for an exclusive event on Tuesday, 30th April 2024, featuring a private screening of the captivating film “Neandria” by acclaimed director Reha Erdem, followed by an insightful panel discussion on Sustainable Filmmaking and a Case Study: Neandria.
The evening will commence with the screening of “Neandria” at 18:30, followed by a panel discussion on Sustainable Filmmaking moderated by former BBC presenter Phillip Bergson at 20:00. The esteemed panelists include Dr. Ekin Gündüz Özdemirci and Nurten Bayraktar from EkoFilm: Sustainable Production Platform, Environmental Humanities Center, Cappadocia University, Türkiye.
“Neandria” explores the story of Suna, a young girl living near the ancient city of Neandria, as she navigates her dreams amidst environmental threats and societal challenges. The film provides a poignant reflection on the pursuit of freedom and self-discovery in the face of adversity.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the world of sustainable filmmaking and gain insights into the making of “Neandria.” Organized in collaboration with the Turkish British Centre for Creative and Cultural Industries – C4CCI, this event promises to be both enlightening and inspiring.
Date: Tuesday, 30th April 2024
Time:
18:30 – Neandria (Reha Erdem, 2023) Film Screening
20:00 – Panel “Sustainable Filmmaking and a Case Study: Neandria”
Venue: 10 Maple Street, W1T 5HA
