The Role of Archives in Preserving Artistic Memory: Visual Artists from Turkey in the Netherlands

Preserving artistic memory through archives either in a museum or in any kind of art institution plays a critical role in understanding the influence and legacy of artists on the contemporary art scene, especially within the context of migration and cultural exchange. This article investigates the significance and possibility of the archives in safeguarding artistic memory, with particular attention on visual artists from Turkey who have relocated to the Netherlands since the 1960s. Through specific case studies, the article underscores the urgent need for institutional archives to embrace more inclusive practices, moving beyond mere preservation to active curation and accessibility. The article argues that by interpreting these records beyond making them visible and by engaging with the experiences, histories, and identities of migrant communities, archives can ensure that diverse narratives within contemporary art are fully represented, thus broadening public understanding.