"Cumhuriyet'in Öncü Kadınları" Exhibition Opens in Denizli

The Cumhuriyet'in Öncü Kadınları exhibition, launched in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Republic, is now hosted in Denizli—a city with a rich history that has been home to many civilizations—following its showcases in Istanbul and Ankara.

Prepared as a tribute to the Republic’s centennial by Açık Holding and curated by author Özlem Özdemir, the exhibition tells a captivating story by illustrating the process of women's emancipation since the founding of the Republic, using real-life examples. The exhibition, which opened today, will be available for free at the Merkezefendi Cultural Center in Denizli for nine days.

Shedding light on history by showcasing the struggles of women who did not wait for inspiration but became inspirations themselves, and highlighting the achievements of the Republic, this exhibition is not just an art event but also an important document of women's struggle for existence since the founding of the Republic of Turkey. The exhibition, which outlines Atatürk’s perspective on women and the process of Turkish women gaining their rights, stands out for its potential to inspire future generations.

By conveying the struggle for women's participation in social life and the achievements gained, Cumhuriyet'in Öncü Kadınları strengthens historical awareness. In addition to well-known figures, it also brings to light the stories of many pioneering women who have remained hidden in the dusty pages of history. Through photographs, artworks, and biographies, it aims to create social awareness using the power of art, portraying the challenges women faced, their achievements, and their hopes for the future.

The fact that the Cumhuriyet'in Öncü Kadınları exhibition is taking place in Denizli, a city known for supporting women's participation in social life, further highlights its identity as a women-friendly city. Additionally, with the support of Merkezefendi Municipality’s female mayor, Şeniz Doğan, the exhibition aims to raise awareness of gender equality.

In the first section of the exhibition, Atatürk’s views on women and the process of Turkish women gaining their rights are presented, offering visitors an artistic journey through history. The second section features the biographies of 20 pioneering women, written by curator Özlem Özdemir. Among them are Ayşe Afet İnan, the first female history professor; Aliye Berger, the first female engraving artist and painter; Belkıs Antel Özdoğan, one of the first female physicists; Prof. Leman Cevat Tomsu, the first female architect; and Bedia Şekip Muvahhit, the first Muslim woman to perform on stage during the Republican era. These 20 women, who achieved groundbreaking successes in various professional fields, and their inspiring works are featured in the exhibition.