The 10th İzmir International Literature Festival Begins
Organized by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality, the 10th İzmir International Literature Festival opened its doors at the Ahmed Adnan Saygun Art Center.
The 10th İzmir International Literature Festival, implemented by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality with the theme "Literature Heals," commenced with a ceremony held at the Ahmed Adnan Saygun Art Center.
The Opening Ceremony of the Festival Took Place
The opening of the tenth festival, organized by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Libraries Branch Directorate, took place at the Ahmed Adnan Saygun Art Center. The program was hosted by İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay.
Guests of Honor Met with the People of İzmir
This year's guests of honor for the organization, directed by poet Haydar Ergülen, were Alberto Manguel, one of the prominent names in world literature, and musician and author Zülfü Livaneli.
During the opening night, the guests addressed the participants and drew attention to the unifying aspect of literature.
Emphasis on Literature by Mayor Tugay
In his opening speech, İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay emphasized that during this period when the world is battered by wars and poverty, humanity's greatest need is to understand oneself and others.
Stating that literature is the finest healing space that brings people closer to one another, Mayor Tugay expressed the importance he attaches to bringing children and youth together with books.
Messages from Artists and the Director
Zülfü Livaneli expressed his happiness at taking part in the event, stating that art exists in our country, but administrators who appreciate art are needed. Festival Director Haydar Ergülen conveyed that literature enriches and liberates humanity.
Presentation of Plaques and Conversation
The host of the night, Mayor Cemil Tugay, presented plaques to Alberto Manguel and Zülfü Livaneli for their contributions. Afterwards, the two figures came together with participants in a conversation titled "Does Literature Heal?"
Young Writers Rewarded
While young writers have held an important place in the festival's ten-year journey, 193 works from all over Turkey participated in the competition organized for the second time among high school students. The ranking youths received their awards from the hands of Mayor Cemil Tugay.