Yadigâr "memento" Fundraising Event Benefitted The Artisans of Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey

A special fundraising exhibition Yadigâr "memento" - The Textiles and Handicrafts of Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey, took place on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Santa Monica.

The daylong public exhibit featured vintage textile arts and handicrafts from Southeastern Anatolia, the area of Turkey recently devastated by the earthquake.

A special opening reception was held on the evening of May 5. Guests joining Event Organizers Vega Sankur, Nalan Kumlali Atahan, and Gelundem Ece Hurmeydan included the Consul General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles Ramiz Dashdamirov, Consul General of Croatia in Los Angeles Renee Pea, E! founder Larry Namer, producer Larry Kasanoff, actors Carolyn Hennesy, Caroline Lagerfelt, Melissa Papel, Dustin Quick & Medi eM, Dee Dee Sorvino, and Nickolai Stoilov; and many others. Santa Monica Council Member Phil Brock attended the May 6th public event.

Proceeds benefitted the handicraft artisans of Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey, which was the region affected by the recent earthquake. The event is presented by Ataturk Cultural Center, a non-profit chapter of the American Turkish Association of Southern California.

@ATAMLA-AKM