International Art Bridge from Helikon Art Association and Rubezh: “The Lost World” Exhibition Meets Art Enthusiasts in Başiskele
August 2, 2026
KOCAELİ – Operating in the Başiskele district of Kocaeli, the Helikon Art Association is hosting an internationally acclaimed art project. Organized in collaboration with the Georgia-based art group Rubezh, artists from around the world have gathered in Kocaeli for a group exhibition titled “The Lost World.”
Staying in Kocaeli for two weeks to continue their creative work, an international ensemble of 16 to 17 artists is exploring the city's key historical and cultural landmarks. Drawing inspiration from the region's heritage and natural beauty, the visiting artists are producing their works directly on-site.
Rubezh Leadership and Artist Team
Leading the Rubezh team—one of the main partners of the project—is Alsu Garapova. Key members of the executive team, Janna Poliashova, Lena Bedareva, and Olga Grechanova, are both managing the organizational aspects of the project and showcasing their own artwork as participating artists.
Pluralistic Cultural Backgrounds and Global Participation
The project features a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, both in terms of the countries the artists reside in and their personal roots. Participants have joined the residency from Iran, Georgia, Germany, the Netherlands, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, and Canada.
Furthermore, the origins and cultural backgrounds of the artists span an even broader dynamic range. The group consists of artists originally from Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Iran, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Tatarstan, Crimea, and Poland. This multicultural foundation brings deep, multifaceted perspectives to "The Lost World" theme.
Intertwining History and Art
Through guided visits and creative activities engaging with Kocaeli's historic fabric, the team translates the city's cultural heritage into their distinct artistic styles. This collective output from creators across varied disciplines and geographies sparks a vibrant international dialogue within the local art scene.
Exhibition Opening on August 8
The pieces crafted throughout these exploratory tours and collaborative workshops will soon be revealed to the public.
“The Lost World” exhibition will officially open on August 8 at the Helikon Art Association venue in Başiskele. Art lovers and press members are cordially invited to experience how various cultures interpret "the lost world" through unique artistic lenses.
Event Details:
Date: August 8
Location: Helikon Art Association, Başiskele / Kocaeli
Rubezh Leader: Alsu Garapova
Rubezh Management & Artists: Janna Poliashova, Lena Bedareva, Olga Grechanova
Participating From: Iran, Georgia, Germany, the Netherlands, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Canada
Cultural Origins of Artists: Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Iran, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, Tatarstan, Crimea, Poland