Mimar Sinan University 1984

Abstract

Mimar Sinan University is the oldest institution in Turkey providing training in arts and architecture using Western methods. It was originally founded in 1882 as a result of the efforts of Osman Hamdi Bey, and it was then called the "School of Fine Arts." In 1883, the school began offering instruction in the disciplines of painting, architecture, sculpture, and engraving. In 1923, a Decorative Arts Department was added, and the same year, the school's name was changed to the "Fine Arts Academy."

In 1969, eighty-six years after its original establishment, the institution achieved a new status under the Fine Arts Academies Act passed by parliament that year, and it became the "Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts." In 1972, following the nationalization of the private Architectural College and the private College of Practical Industrial Arts, both were made part of the Academy.

Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts was the core around which Mimar Sinan University was founded on 4 November 1981 under the Higher Education Act. The university at present consists of three faculties, two institutes, the State Conservatory, the Professional College of Fashion Garments and Architectural Restoration, and their associated units. It concentrates on educational, training, and research activities that are predominantly architecture, art, and culture-oriented.