In his latest project “Aşk Olsun Çocuk," Ali Cabbar wrote a photo novella style biography of the legendary revolutionary Deniz Gezmiş, who was considered by many as the "Turkish Che Guevara."

Researched, written and designed in 18-months, the book is published on April 2023 by Boyut in Istanbul, after being released online in weekly instalments in the previous year. It tells the story of Gezmiş in the context of what was going on in the world when he was growing up, and helps us to understand his actions and why he did what he did. It also tells the story of the "Baby Boomer" generation and their rebellious year of 1968. The title of the book  comes from a poem by Can Yücel written for Gezmiş, and it roughly means, "I admire you, kid! I respect you!" It is an unusual publication, regarded as an artist's book by some and a mini encyclopedia by others.

Deniz Gezmiş (1947-1972) was Ali Cabbar's childhood hero, a law student and an exraordinary leader, who made a mark on his country's history despite his short life. He and his two friends, Yusuf Aslan and Hüseyin Inan, were executed by the state in May 6, 1972, after sentenced to death by a military tribunal. More than 50 years have passed since their deaths, but they are not forgotten. They became a beacon of hope for change, freedom and equality. 

 

Aşk Olsun Çocuk / FOTOROMAN by Ali Cabbar

Boyut Publishing

192-pages, 21x27 cm, in color, in Turkish

Available online at boyutstore.com