By Heidi Trautmann

“Our primary aim is to bring women together and increase their confidence, while also giving a message to society,” said Femin & Art International Women Artists’ Association President Şükran Üst at an opening for the event which took place in July 2013 in Trabzon.

Ipek Denizli Karagöz from North Cyprus was one of the 100 female artists from 26 different countries who went to join the festival. Ipek is one of the few artists known in Cyprus to do etching and lino cut art among others. She is very active and participated in national art competitions  and is also involved in EMAA’s (European Mediterranean Art Association) art school events.

Femin-art is an association that encourages women to take their place in art. The association was created six years ago and features six branches in Turkey. The group brings together female artists to participate in national and international art activities and works with international organizations in order to present female Turkish artists to the world. Different artistic disciplines are represented in the association such as literature, painting, caricature portrayals and photography.

Contribution to peace worldwide is what the Association aims at: Peace through art. The will for peace is stronger in women as they are the ones who protect the interests of the family. By reaching out for participants worldwide and Turkish female artists participating in similar events in other countries they hope that the idea grows around the globe.

Not a bad idea, but it is not a new one; already in Greek mythology women joint forces to stop war although by other means than art activities.