The selected works of the finalists of the 1st Welded Metal Sculpture Competition, organized by the Gedik Education Foundation (GEV) to encourage young artists and foster artistic creativity, have gained international recognition by being featured in the IIW 2026 Digital Collection – Welded Art Photographic Exhibition: Shaping the Future. Published by the International Institute of Welding (IIW), one of the world's most prestigious organizations in the field of welding and joining technologies, the collection showcases outstanding examples of welded art from across the globe.
The IIW 2026 Digital Collection, prepared with contributions from more than 50 artists and institutions representing 15 countries, highlights the artistic potential of welding while promoting international cultural exchange. The inclusion of the Gedik Education Foundation in this distinguished publication marks an important milestone in bringing Türkiye's creative achievements in welded metal sculpture to the international stage. It also provides the competition's young finalists with the opportunity to present their work to a global audience while representing Türkiye's artistic and technical excellence in this field.
Through this competition, the Gedik Education Foundation seeks to establish a unique platform where young people can combine technical expertise with artistic creativity. Beyond recognizing emerging talent, the Foundation is committed to supporting young artists by creating opportunities for them to engage with international artistic and professional networks.
Published annually under a different theme, the IIW Digital Collection is internationally recognized as one of the leading publications dedicated to showcasing the artistic dimension of welding technologies. The theme of the 2026 edition, "Shaping the Future," celebrates innovation, creativity, and the transformative power of welded art. The participation of the Gedik Education Foundation in this year's collection further reflects the international recognition of its vision to empower young artists and promote interdisciplinary creativity.
Following this international achievement, the Gedik Education Foundation remains committed to supporting emerging artists and encouraging artistic production that bridges welding technology and contemporary art. In this context, applications for the 2nd Gedik Education Foundation Welded Metal Sculpture Competition will be accepted between 10 August and 10 September 2026. Open to university students, the competition will once again provide young artists with the opportunity to showcase their original welded metal sculptures while gaining visibility at both national and international levels.
The Gedik Education Foundation will continue to support young creators and develop new opportunities that bring together art, technology, and innovation.
GEV
Connecting Today, Inspiring Tomorrow.
About the International Institute of Welding (IIW)
Founded in 1948, the International Institute of Welding (IIW) is the world's leading international organization dedicated to welding and joining technologies, bringing together more than 60 member countries. IIW promotes scientific research, the development of internationally recognized education, training, qualification, and certification systems, technical knowledge exchange, and global collaboration across the welding community.
As part of its commitment to highlighting the artistic dimension of welding, IIW also publishes the IIW Digital Collection – Welded Art Photographic Exhibition, an international digital publication dedicated to welded art. Produced annually around a different theme, the collection brings together artists and institutions from around the world, contributing to the international promotion and recognition of welded art.
Click here to access the IIW 2026 Digital Collection – Welded Art Photographic Exhibition.