site.btaBodrum Becomes Artistic Harbour of Vezhdi Rashidov with His Exhibition “Blue”

The Turkish coastal town of Bodrum, renowned for its romance, elegance, and beauty, has become the summer haven of Bulgarian artist and sculptor Vezhdi Rashidov. He dedicated his summer watercolours to the town and opened his exhibition, Blue, on August 2 in a former stone fisherman’s house, now restored and transformed into a gallery showcasing some of Turkiye’s most prominent contemporary artists.

The watercolours, embodying dreams of summer and infinity, drew collectors eager to take home drops of the sea captured on paper by the artist’s brush. Nearly half of the works were sold on the opening night.

"The title, Blue, came quite spontaneously," Rashidov shared. "The sea, the sky, the eyes of blue beads — this colour dominates in Turkiye. The sea is a part of our lives and has always been a source of inspiration."

This marks the first time the artist has devoted an entire exhibition to the shades of blue and the islands that dwell within them. His brush dances across the small watercolours as if carried by the sea breeze. Rocky outcrops emerge with grace from the endless blue, and with a little imagination, one can spot sea creatures and birds.

“Islands are always a mystery and a marvel floating in the blue in a unique way. These little circles in the watercolours represent them,” the artist explained.

What mattered most to Rashidov that evening, however, was the warmth and respect from admirers and friends.

“What else is left in life but to enjoy my artworks, fine exhibitions, and good people? A guest tonight reminded me he had bought my sculptures back in 1992 and showed me photos — it moved me deeply. That’s the beauty of these moments — they remind us that everything else is temporary, but art is why we must carry on. That’s what will remain after me,” Rashidov said.

Among the guests at the Stone House gallery were actress Aneta Sotirova and her husband — close friends of Rashidov and his wife, Dr Sneja Baharova. Bulgarian Ambassador to Turkiye Angel Cholakov, made a surprise appearance, travelling to Bodrum especially for the opening.

“Blue symbolizes peace, the sea, harmony, the sky. I am deeply moved to attend Maestro Vezhdi Rashidov’s exhibition in Bodrum. His work is remarkable. Rashidov is a landmark figure in Bulgarian culture — an artist, politician, statesman, and a bearer of Bulgarian talent. I firmly believe in cultural diplomacy as a powerful vehicle for foreign policy, and Maestro Rashidov is one of its proud standard-bearers. Today also marks a kind of anniversary — 10 years ago, alongside then-PM Boyko Borissov and Rashidov, we opened the Thracian treasure exhibition at the Louvre, visited by over 10 million people. I wish Maestro Rashidov good health and continued creativity, and a beautiful summer to all his admirers,” the Ambassador said.

Blue will remain on view in Bodrum until August 10.