Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Islamists vs. Hipsters in Istanbul

"Islamists vs. Hipsters in Istanbul
September 22, 2010 - 8:24am, by Yigal Schleifer

It appears that things have finally come to a boil in Istanbul rapidly gentrifying and trendy Beyoglu district. Last night, a group of some 30 men wielding sticks and stones attacked the openings of two neighboring galleries in the area, smashing windows, spraying pepper spray, and injuring at least five people.

The attack took place in a part of the neighborhood that has become something of an arts hub, with several new independent galleries opening up there in recent years. The Istanbul Modern, the city's first modern arts museum, is just down the hill from the galleries."

More:Islamists vs. Hipsters in Istanbul | EurasiaNet.org