Religious art has transcended centuries, inspiring believers and enhancing sacred places around the world. In this spirit, Mahir Akkaya has embarked on a unique endeavor: offering paintings of great artistic and spiritual value to sacred and memorial sites.
A Memorable Encounter with the Art of Bahattin Saygi
It all began in a modest shop in Antalya, where Mahir Akkaya discovered the fascinating works of Bahattin Saygi, a master mosaic artist renowned throughout the Middle East. These paintings, crafted from small stones collected in Israel, Palestine, and Jordan, captivate with their precision and symbolism.
Saygi, deeply devoted to Christian iconography, dedicated part of his life to creating unique works depicting biblical figures such as Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Each piece is one of a kind, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and profound spirituality.
A Mission: Preserving and Sharing These Treasures
Mahir Akkaya acquired 46 paintings by Bahattin Saygi with a clear goal: to exhibit them in holy places where their spiritual significance can be fully appreciated. Honoring a condition set by the artist’s son, Mahir committed to donating these artworks only to locations where they can nurture the faith of visitors.
This ambitious project began with donations to emblematic sites such as Mont Sainte-Odile in Alsace. Each painting, displayed in these sacred spaces, becomes an invitation to reflection, prayer, and artistic admiration.
A Patronage Open to All
To extend this mission, Mahir Akkaya developed a patronage program, allowing donors to participate in this initiative. By financing the exhibition of these paintings, each patron can have their name associated with a piece, inscribed on a commemorative plaque beneath the artwork.
Thanks to this system, Saygi’s works have found their place in prestigious sites such as Lourdes, Fatima, Santiago de Compostela, and Oradour-sur-Glane. These historically and spiritually rich locations become the guardians of this unique art.
The Impact of These Donations on Visitors
Bahattin Saygi’s paintings are not merely works of art; they carry a universal dimension that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Displayed in sacred places, they invite each visitor to reconnect with the essential—whether through artistic contemplation or spiritual meditation.
The custodians of these sites, whether religious or memorial, have praised Mahir’s initiative. They bear witness to the deep emotion these works evoke in pilgrims and visitors alike.
A Supported and Inspiring Approach
This project is not just about material donations. It embodies a commitment to preserving spiritual and artistic heritage while forging connections between faith and religious art.
By contributing to this initiative, Mahir Akkaya reminds us that art can transcend borders, become a bridge between cultures and generations, and enrich our understanding of the sacred.
