Collection History
A fast growing journey
Rooted in the spirit of École de Paris, which emerged in the 1930s and continued its evolution until the 1970s, our collection reflects the convergence of individual expression through geometric and poetic forms. Originally denoting non-French artists residing in Paris from 1910 to 1930, the term “Nouvelle École de Paris” later broadened to encompass abstract painters in Paris, regardless of nationality.
The collection meticulously curates the Lyrical and Geometric-Abstract works of first-generation artists (1945-1960) and second-generation artists who carried the legacy of the School of Paris into the post-1970s era. Visionaries such as Fahrelnissa Zeid, Fikret Mualla, Hakkı Anlı, Abidin Dino, Selim Turan, and others have left an indelible mark on Turkish modern art.
Over time, the Öner Kocabeyoğlu Collection has evolved beyond its initial focus on the School of Paris. It actively embraces the diversity of contemporary Turkish and international art, expanding its horizons to include works from emerging and globally-recognized artists. With over 2500 pieces by 200+ artists, our collection is a significant repository shared with the public through research, publications, and curated exhibitions.