KALTBLUT Magazine is thrilled to showcase the vibrant and diverse LGBTQ communities of Istanbul through Elska, a groundbreaking project dedicated to celebrating their bodies and voices. Istanbul, often considered the gay capital of the Muslim world, takes centre stage in Elska’s latest edition.
www.instagram.com/elskamagazine
When asked about his initial reservations about Istanbul, Elska editor and chief photographer Liam Campbell admits, “I must admit that I had been resistant to the idea of coming to Istanbul.” However, a local gay man’s passionate insistence that Istanbul was the perfect city for Elska convinced Campbell to revisit his preconceived notions. Determined to explore the city’s queer life, Campbell booked flights, spreading the word about Elska to potential participants.
Upon arriving in Istanbul, Campbell quickly realized how mistaken he had been. Istanbul turned out to be an exceptionally welcoming city, offering a plethora of willing subjects. The stories shared by the LGBTQ individuals were raw, honest, and heartfelt, while the captured images were candid, relaxed, and revealing. Istanbul surpassed all expectations and became the epitome of an ideal Elska city.
Inside the captivating pages of ‘Elska Istanbul’ and the accompanying zine ‘Elska Ekstra Istanbul,’ readers will be introduced to over twenty extraordinary members of Istanbul’s LGBTQ community. The photo shoots took place both in the city’s vibrant streets and within the personal sanctuaries of the participants, allowing readers to feel intimately connected to their lives. Furthermore, each individual had the opportunity to share their personal narratives, bridging the gap between reader and subject.
The stories within ‘Elska Istanbul’ cover a wide range of topics, shedding light on the diverse experiences of Istanbul’s LGBTQ community. From Ekin K’s enlightening tale of being part of the very first gay couple to marry in Turkey, serving as proud role models, to Furkan Y’s deeply personal confession about navigating the challenges presented by a growing conservative and religious contingent, which amps up hostility towards homosexuals. Other stories include Efe B’s captivating account of a typical post-excessive Istanbul Saturday night, emphasizing the city’s unique charm comparable to that of Berlin or Amsterdam, and Mert E’s courageous story of the personal sacrifices made and the enduring strength he discovered after coming out.
‘Elska Istanbul’ encompasses 180 captivating pages and is available for purchase online through the Elska website. Copies can also be found in select shops worldwide. Additionally, readers can indulge in the companion zine ‘Elska Ekstra Istanbul,’ featuring exclusive outtakes, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and profiles of more than a dozen other captivating Istanbulites. For a complete list of stockists and subscription details, please visit the Elska website at www.elskamagazine.com.
