Invisible Labour, Visible Stories: Celebrating Scottish Female Documentarians in Istanbul

Beykoz Kundura, in collaboration with the British Council, presents a century of pioneering Scottish documentary cinema to mark International Women’s Day.

By TB Magazine Editorial Team

Since 2020, Beykoz Kundura has dedicated its March programming to a vital cause: excavating the lost chapters of film history to honour the women who shaped the silver screen. This year, the focus travels from the Bosphorus to the Highlands. On 6–7 March 2026, the curated programme “Invisible Labour, Visible Stories” will bring the works of Scottish female documentarians—spanning from 1935 to the present day—to Istanbul for the very first time.

A Cultural Bridge: From Edinburgh to Beykoz

The origins of this programme lie in a burgeoning international partnership. In 2024, Beykoz Kundura was a guest of the Momentum programme—a joint initiative by the British Council and Creative Scotland designed to immerse global cultural leaders in Scotland’s vibrant festival ecosystem.

This experience has blossomed into a sustainable creative collaboration. By partnering with the Invisible Women collective and the Scottish Documentary Institute, Beykoz Kundura has crafted a curation that does more than just screen films; it challenges the traditional cinematic canon through a feminist lens.

Why This Matters

For the documentary enthusiast in Istanbul, this is a rare opportunity. These films, many of which have remained in the shadows of film archives, offer a unique perspective on social history, identity, and the female gaze. The programme bridges the gap between the pioneering efforts of the 1930s and the contemporary voices of today’s Scottish cinema.

Beyond the Screen: Dialogue and Celebration

True to Beykoz Kundura’s immersive approach, the event extends beyond the darkened theatre:

• Curatorial Talks: Each screening will be preceded by discussions with the curators, exploring the visibility of women in creative production and the politics of the archive.

• Ladies On Records: Following the films, the celebration shifts to the foyer. Ladies On Records will perform a live DJ set, spotlighting the stories of female musicians from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s—a fitting tribute to International Women’s Day.

Strengthening Collective Memory

At Turkish British Magazine, we believe that visibility is an act of solidarity. By showcasing these “invisible” labours, Beykoz Kundura and its partners are not just telling stories; they are actively expanding our collective cultural memory.

Whether you are a cinephile or an advocate for gender equality in the arts, this weekend at Beykoz Kundura promises a profound look at how women have captured the world through their lenses for nearly a century.

Event Details:

• Dates: 6–7 March 2026

• Location: Beykoz Kundura, Istanbul

• Tickets & Info: beykozkundura.com