Faculty of Fine Arts - gsf@gelisim.edu.tr
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 Faculty of Fine Arts - gsf@gelisim.edu.tr

Visual Communication Design








 Filming Begins for the Babylon Documentary Directed by Lecturer Ahmet Bikiç


Filming has begun for the documentary “The Hanging Gardens of Babylon,” a project realized through the collaboration between Istanbul Gelişim University (IGU) and Iraq’s University of Hilla. Focusing on Babylon’s historical and cultural heritage, the project aims to render visible not only the city’s archaeological significance but also its sociological dimensions.


The documentary is directed by Ahmet Bikiç, Lecturer in the Department of Visual Communication Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts (GSF), Istanbul Gelişim University (IGU). Structured in a docu-drama format, the production brings together an international cast featuring Turkish and Iraqi actors.

Babylon’s Historical and Cultural Heritage Examined from an Academic Perspective

Within the scope of the Film Academy Babylon studies, the project’s initial filming phase includes interviews with experts who address Babylon’s historical and cultural significance. Through these conversations, the documentary seeks to offer viewers an in-depth look at the city’s multi-layered past.

In the subsequent phases of the project, docu-drama scenes will be filmed featuring Turkish actor Sultan Saruhan and Iraqi actor Kadhrm Khanjar. In these segments, Babylon will be approached not only through historical narration but also within a broader sociological framework.

An International Production Through Academic and Artistic Collaboration

Beyond Babylon’s physical structures, the documentary centers on the social relations shaped in this ancient geography, cultural continuity, and its multicultural character. Bringing together multiple disciplines, the project stands as a strong example of international inter-university collaboration.

Led by Ahmet Bikiç, the production process actively involves faculty members and students from IGU’s Faculty of Fine Arts. The project provides participants with a valuable opportunity for both academic engagement and hands-on artistic experience.

Baghdad Premiere and International Screenings

Following the completion of filming, final revisions will be made during evaluation meetings to be held at Istanbul Gelişim University in October. Once completed, the documentary will meet international audiences with a premiere gala to be held in Baghdad.

This project represents a significant step in line with Istanbul Gelişim University’s internationalization vision, contributing to cultural production, academic collaboration, and artistic exchange on a global scale.