“Kız Başına” Project
“Kiz Basina”, which translates as “As A Woman” in Turkish, is a saying that has been used as a weapon of oppression against women in Turkey, suggesting that it is dangerous for a woman to do things on her own. It’s not only a linguistic but a psychological tool that influences the way women behave in daily life.
Public spaces are the territory of men where toxic masculinity is practiced, making women feel unsafe to move around and behave freely. This project is inspired by my personal experience taking a cab in Istanbul, which always starts with me taking the picture of the plate number and sending it to my parents. Then, I share my location, trying to avoid any questions during the ride. If the driver begins to interact, I answer his questions based on what I think he wants to hear. These are the techniques that I believe keep me safe, and most women in Turkey have similar tools, habits, and techniques that they use.
Public spaces are the territory of men where toxic masculinity is practiced, making women feel unsafe to move around and behave freely. This project is inspired by my personal experience taking a cab in Istanbul, which always starts with me taking the picture of the plate number and sending it to my parents. Then, I share my location, trying to avoid any questions during the ride. If the driver begins to interact, I answer his questions based on what I think he wants to hear. These are the techniques that I believe keep me safe, and most women in Turkey have similar tools, habits, and techniques that they use.
