The Anadolu University Faculty of Fine Arts (FFA) organized its "40th Anniversary Alumni Reunion" to commemorate the faculty's 40th anniversary. The event took place at the Anadolu University FFA Conference Hall. The event began with an opening speech by Prof. Duygu Kahraman, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, followed by a symbolic opening lecture.
The event was attended by numerous faculty members, alumni, and students, including Anadolu University FFA Acting Dean Prof. Duygu Kahraman, Vice Dean Assoc. Prof. Gülçin Karaca, former Rector of Anadolu University and Founding Dean of the FFA Prof. Dr. Engin Ataç, former FFA Deans Prof. Atilla Atar, Prof. Emel Şölenay, and Prof. Rahmi Atalay.
Prof. Kahraman: "Every clay kneaded, every color used, every effort is a part of this story."
In his opening speech, Prof. Kahraman emphasized the importance of the cultural and artistic heritage the faculty has carried from its founding to the present day, saying: “Since its founding, our faculty has been dedicated to showing people how to understand themselves and the world, beyond simply giving meaning to art. Every clay kneaded, every color used, every brushstroke, every hammering sound, every effort is a part of this story. For forty years, countless teachers and students have progressed under this roof. Some of us are academics today, some are artists, some are entrepreneurs, but we all draw from the same roots. The fact that a step taken years ago still paves new paths today is a very precious legacy for us. We are determined to keep this legacy alive.”
Prof. Dr. Ataç: “The spirit of this school lives on through you.”
Former Anadolu University Rector and Founding Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Prof. Dr. Engin Ataç, also expressed his gratitude to Prof. Dr. Ataç, a faculty member of the Graphic Arts Department. In his speech on the past and present at the symbolic opening lecture moderated by Tevfik Fikret Uçar, he said: “Being here today is like a door opening to the past for me. The Faculty of Fine Arts hasn't just been an institution for us; it's been a home we've grown together. We've all strived to produce with the same enthusiasm. Sometimes with limited resources, but always with a high idea. What we're celebrating today isn't just 40 years; it's the shared effort, the bonds forged, and the memory of this faculty. Each of you has left a mark here. The faculty doesn't remain within its walls; it moves wherever you are. The spirit of this school is present in everything you do. Seeing you here shows that your efforts are not in vain. We're so glad you came, so glad you were a part of this story.”
Assoc. Prof. Karaca: “While honoring our past, we leave a mark on the future”
FAF Vice Dean Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gülçin Karaca emphasized that the event was not just a gathering, but also a memory and a legacy: “When planning this gathering, our goal was not only to bring together our alumni, but also to bring together our valued faculty who have dedicated themselves to this faculty for years. Seeing our alumni and faculty side by side again is invaluable in keeping our faculty's memory alive. As part of the event, we prepared a time capsule to be opened in 10 years. This capsule contains the messages and memories of our students and alumni. We also opened the ‘Heritage Exhibition,’ featuring works by alumni from all departments. While honoring our past, we are also leaving a mark on the future.”
Following the opening remarks and a symbolic opening lecture, plaques were presented to former Anadolu University Rector and Founding Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Prof. Dr. Engin Ataç, and former Deans of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Prof. Atilla Atar, Prof. Emel Şölenay, and Prof. Rahmi Atalay.
The "Heritage Exhibition" opened, and a time capsule was buried.
As part of the event, a time capsule was buried in the faculty garden, to be opened in 10 years. The capsule contained messages from graduates and student writings. The "Heritage Exhibition," which featured works by graduates from all departments, was also opened.
A nostalgic gathering accompanied by music
Following the opening lecture, refreshments were served to the participants of the 40th Year Alumni Reunion in the Anadolu University Faculty of Fine Arts parking lot. Students from the Anadolu University State Conservatory performed a musical concert throughout the event.
Source: https://egazete.anadolu.edu.tr/kampus/43730/gsfde-40-yil-mezunlar-bulusmasi-ve-sergisi-duzenlendi