Lucy Loves: January
My monthly edit of the things exciting me, including 6 must-see exhibitions, Turkey’s secret spot and gem-encrusted jewels
Hi everyone,
Happy New Year and welcome to Lucy Loves, a monthly column from The Istanbulist, my sparkly new newsletter about all things art, design and travel in Istanbul and beyond. January 2023 marks the official launch of this new writing venture so thank you for joining me here — I hope you enjoy the ride!
If you haven’t already subscribed, please do so by hitting the button below. Your support means the world to me and will keep this newsletter free for everyone for as long as possible. You can also find me on Instagram and browse previously published articles over on the Istanbulist website.
Here’s a quick reminder of what you’ll get as a subscriber: semi-regular newsletters delivered straight to your inbox with art, design and travel features with a Turkish twist. Think hotels to book now, design-led restaurants to note down and emerging Turkish artists to invest in. The good news? Given nearly everything is bookable, browsable or buyable online, there’s something for you to enjoy wherever you are!
Here’s to a wonderful 2023.
Lucy Xx
WHAT IS LUCY LOVES?
The Lucy Loves column (of which this is the first edition) is a monthly edit from The Istanbulist of the news, shows, exhibitions, collaborations, openings, hotspots and so on that are exciting me in London and Istanbul. Think of it as a moodboard of sorts — but with more words than pictures. As ever, please let me know of any recommendations for future editions by commenting below.
WHAT I’M BOOKING…
I don’t know about you, but I’m already craving sunshine and a little dose of vitamin sea. Which means I’m in holiday planning mode. And top of my list is a return trip to the D Maris Bay in Datça, a 50-mile-long peninsula at the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Aegean seas that has one of the most captivating and unspoilt landscapes I’ve ever seen.
Admittedly, the Datça peninsula has long been a favourite among well-heeled Istanbulites, but its distance from airports and pockets of undulating national parkland have left it much less touristy than the rest of south-west Turkey. Which of course means now is the time to go.
Perched on top of a rocky cliffside amidst Jurassic flora and fauna, the D Maris offers splendid views across sparkling turquoise waters, an excellent range of facilities and activities, from sailing and diving to yoga and pilates, as well as five private beaches, numerous restaurants and eight bars. There’s also a separate sundowner terrace.
It’s pricey, yes, but wow is it worth it. I would highly recommend it for a spoiling spring treat or a late summer jaunt en famille. It’s closed for the winter but re-opens in early May — and is already booking up fast. Avoid high season if you can and plump for a sea-view room. Intrigued by Datça? Check out my insider’s guide to Turkey’s secret spot on Citizen Femme.
OBSESSING OVER …
This pair of crystal Sun Cross and eye earrings from Begüm Khan, the Istanbul jewellery brand established in 2012 by Turkish designer Begüm Kiroglu. Born into a family of Ottoman art collectors, Kiroglu has long been captivated by mystical Eastern influences, which she now brings to life in her dazzling gem-encrusted collections.
Each piece is handcrafted by Turkish artisans and fuses glamorous nostalgia, contemporary elegance and a touch of surrealist whimsy. In a stroke of luck, the companion necklace is currently on sale via Net-a-Porter. Hurry, there’s just one left.
ENJOYING….
My new neighbourhood in Istanbul. Those of you who follow me on Instagram will know that Olly and I have left our beloved Balat for Kadiköy, a residential neighbourhood on the Asian side. This is super exciting (if a little overwhelming) as it means navigating and decoding a completely new part of the city.
But a recent trot around Moda — a chic seaside district within walking distance of our new flat — makes me think I’m going to like it here. Not least because it is home to the most delicious pancakes I have ever tried. Munchies, I am your newest most loyal fan.
Any tips or recommendations? Please do drop them in the comments below.
LOOKING FORWARD TO…
My first hammam of the year. Because it’s freezing in Istanbul. Yep, really. So off to the baths I go.
Of all the hammams in the city, my favourite is Hürrem Sultan Hamami, a 16th century Turkish bath nestled between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. There’s nothing better to banish the January blues than an indulgent, bubbly soak. I promise. Not in Istanbul? Add it to your future city break to-do list now.
LONDON CALLING
The three shows in London that I’m gutted to be missing this month. Londoners, take note!
Spain and the Hispanic World: Treasures from the Hispanic Society Museum & Library
21 January — 10 April 2023
Royal Academy of Arts, London
The Royal Academy is one of my favourite museums in London and I’ve been looking forward to this major exhibition since it was first announced way back when. Spain and the Hispanic World will present a visual narrative of the history of Spanish culture, while exploring the diversity of influences that have shaped its culture across four millennia.
It will feature over 150 works from Spain and colonial Latin America, from antiquity to the early 20th century, including paintings, sculptures, silk textiles and jewellery. Central to the show is of course Goya’s formidable portrait of the Duchess of Alba (above). Please can we talk about those shoes!
David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)
25 January — 23 April 2023
Lightroom, London
Haven’t you heard? London is getting a ground-breaking new arts hub. Located near Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross, Lightroom will host immersive artist-led exhibitions that showcase the latest digital wizardry and interactive audio-visual technology.
Inaugurating this mega new space is Bigger & Closer, a solo show of new and old works by Bradford-born David Hockney. Enter this brightly coloured world to discover his inspirations, artistic process and joyful creations as never before. Just what January needs if you ask me.
Lucian Freud: New Perspectives
Until 22 January 2023
The National Gallery, London
Not new, I know, but it’s closing soon, so hurry if you’ve not yet been. The first significant survey of Lucian Freud’s paintings in 10 years charts the artist’s creative development, while offering fresh views on his life and art. It features more than 60 paintings from across his seven-decade career, including such celebrated works as The Brigadier (2003-4), the larger-than-life portrait of Andrew Parker Bowles, which sold at Christie’s in 2015 for a whopping $34,885,000.
THE ISTANBULLETIN
And surprise, surprise, here you will find three for your radar in Istanbul.
Cihan Öncü
Until 31 January 2023
Dirimart, Istanbul
Cihan Öncü creates images that make you double take. And his new body of photographic work is no exception. Think thick liquids poured over fresh fruit and velvety treats swimming in sticky syrups. It’s a feast for the eyes. Quite literally.
Ali Elmaci: Kiss My Lips Dagger My Heart
14 January — 18 February 2023
Pilevneli Gallery, Istanbul
Pilevneli is one of the leading contemporary art galleries in Turkey. Landing at its Istanbul outpost this January is the first solo show of work by the multi-media artist Ali Elmacı. Shown alongside his latest paper and canvas works tackling everything from popular culture to power structures are three new short-length films directed by the artist and produced by Bulut Reyhanoğlu.
Hanefi Yeter: Vesile
Until 11 February 2023
Anna Laudel, Istanbul
I’ve only recently discovered the art of Hanefi Yeter, but I’m really rather taken by it. His new solo show at Anna Laudel features a selection of sculptures, paintings, drawings and ceramic works made over the past three years inspired by nature and our attitude towards it. I’m particularly drawn to the collection of pottery hand-picked and painted by the artist from the Ayvalık region in Turkey. Just love.
AND FINALLY…
A random snapshot that made me smile. Just because :)
I met and fell in love with this little fella at the PET Gala at the Four Seasons Bosphorus in Istanbul. The evening was organised by the brilliant team @LABRAND in support of street dog charities in Turkey. As a real dog lover, it was an evening I could wholeheartedly get behind. Click on the pic for more deets. What a guy!
Great post, Lucy. Those images are making me need to travel away from these grey skies :)