Statement from Anyma following cancellation of Istanbul concert

Italian-American DJ Anyma, known for combining electronic music, visual arts, and technology in his stage performances, has made his first comprehensive statement following the cancellation of his Istanbul concert.

Anyma was expected to perform at the Ataköy Marina Arena on September 12 as part of his 2026 ÆDEN World Tour. However, the event was cancelled by the decision of the Istanbul Governor's Office. Prior to the concert, some visuals used in the artist's stage concepts were targeted by certain groups on social media, who alleged that they contained "satanic ritual symbols," and calls for cancellation turned into a campaign.

In a statement on his social media account, the artist stated that storytelling lies at the heart of his show, saying, "As those who have experienced this journey with me for years know, what I am trying to create is, above all, storytelling."

Anyma described his stage show as "a science fiction story about darkness and light, destruction and creation, fear and hope." Emphasizing that it is misleading to present a single scene from a work out of context as if it were the meaning of the entire project, the artist said, "In my story, light ultimately prevails."

REJECTED ALLEGATIONS REGARDING VISUALS

Anyma said that he and his team have been working with artists, designers, and animators for the last five years to create a visual universe. Stating that they draw inspiration from art history, mythology, and ancient literature in their stage designs, the artist expressed that religious figures are not directly represented and that they have no intention of attacking any religion or culture.

Arguing that some content circulated on social media was manipulated, Anyma claimed that dark moments selected from the show were taken out of context, altered with artificial intelligence, and paired with different music to create a "malicious" narrative.

The artist also rejected claims that his stage visuals were produced with artificial intelligence. "Let me be clear: None of my visuals are AI-generated," said Anyma, arguing that those criticizing his work used AI to alter it. In his statement, he included the phrase, "My art has been turned into social media and political propaganda."

SIGNAL OF APPEAL AGAINST THE DECISION

Stating that there was no communication with them during the cancellation process, Anyma said that his team, the organizer, or he himself did not receive any reasonable warning before the show was cancelled and did not have the opportunity to establish a dialogue. The artist noted that they were not asked to explain the work, provide context, or discuss possible adaptations, stating that they were ready to do so.

Anyma emphasized that they reject the religious and political meanings being forced upon his work. Stating that they perform in different countries around the world and maintain a respectful dialogue with local cultures and traditions, the artist expressed that they would have shown the same approach in Turkey if legitimate concerns had been raised through dialogue.

The artist also announced that they are considering appealing the decision regarding the cancellation of the Istanbul concert. Anyma said, "We will continue to strive to find a way to return to Turkey and the Turkish people."

Thanking his fans who bought tickets and traveled to Turkey for the concert, Anyma stated that their communication channels would remain open and that they are ready to meet with the necessary authorities and explain the artistic context of their work. He concluded his statement with the words, "I hope we can return and complete the story together in Istanbul."

News Source: 12punto