The Atelier took place in Izmir, the third largest city in Turkey on the Aegean coast in Asia Minor. The exceptional historic and cultural features of this ancient city (including the ruins of Ephesus) which bond Asia to Europe offered plenty of food for thought during the Atelier.

The International Izmir Festival features world renowned artists at unique historical venues. The Festival, which runs between June 10 and July 20 every year, has proved itself over the years to be one of the cultural and intellectual cornerstones of Turkey, attracting great attendance from locals and foreigners alike. The festival covers a wide spectrum of classical, traditional and contemporary works in music, ballet, theatre and opera including both international and national performances.

This festival has been an EFA member since 2003.