Cemile Ozan Geyik

4.1 Artistic Activities of Official Institutions in the Context of Visual Arts Education (Paper)

Cemile Ozan Geyik

Ali Osman Alakuş – Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey 

Abstract:

Despite changes in its influence, content, and quality over time, art continues to be a powerful medium through which individuals can freely express themselves today. Therefore, visual arts education, like general education, should not be limited to schools but maintained as a lifelong and widespread process.

The aim of this research is to examine the extent to which official institutions in Diyarbakır contribute to visual arts education through their artistic activities. The data for this research, conducted using the case study method, one of the qualitative research designs, were obtained through interviews, observations, and document reviews. For the positive effects of visual arts education on individuals to last a lifetime and for non-school learning environments to be established, the state and all official and local dynamics must fulfil their responsibilities. It is evident that through inter-institutional cooperation, individuals in society can be educated through art. Official institutions conduct these activities within the discipline of education and training, beyond the regular schooling framework.

The study observed that the Metropolitan Municipality and affiliated municipalities, Dicle University, and the Directorate of Culture and Tourism provide art-oriented education and organize exhibitions. While many artists and academics have held exhibitions, their number is insufficient when considering the city’s population. Institutions have demonstrated that prioritizing individuals with special needs while organizing visual arts education programs contributes to healthy social communication and social harmony. The accessibility of venues where education and events are held has a positive impact on the socio-economic and cultural conditions of the population in the region. The findings suggest that supporting visual arts education increases artistic awareness and fosters cultural development. Furthermore, it has been concluded that collaborative efforts among institutions make art more accessible and appealing to all segments of society.