Published on the occasion of the 15th Istanbul Biennial and with contributions by the Bernard van Leer Foundation, Optigull and Pessigull: A Good Neighbour Song aims at fostering curiosity in children for contemporary art, the 15th Istanbul Biennial, and its theme a good neighbour.

In the book, two seagulls by the name of Optigull and Pessigull living in Istanbul take on a journey to the Istanbul Biennial, introducing seven artworks to children. While various your-turn sections invite young readers to explore the concept of a good neighbour, a glossary at the end gets them acquainted with contemporary art terms and concepts. Optigull and Pessigull: A Good Neighbour Song playfully engages with its readers through an intriguing plot, entertaining illustrations and colourful design.

Optigull and Pessigull: A Good Neighbour Song, with editions in Turkish and English languages, was distributed at the biennial venues and selected bookshops. An Arabic translation will soon be available.

Optigull and Pessigull: A Good Neighbour Song
Written by Yekta Kopan
Illustrated by Gökçe Akgül
Edited by Burcu Ural Kopan
Psychological Supervision by Assoc. Prof. Feyza Çorapçı
Languages: Turkish, English
2017