Simon Fujiwara Fairytale Kingdom, 2019
Found polystyrene architectural elements, iron holders, UV print on Alu-Dibond placard
120 x 120 cm approx.
Fairytale Kingdom consists of architectural fragments made of polystyrene that Simon Fujiwara found during a tour of Burj al Babas. Situated in the Turkish countryside between Ankara and Istanbul, the site is a luxury retreat consisting of 587 identical villas. The 'chateaux-style' exteriors which are allegedly based on both French Classical castles and historical Turkish landmarks, such as the 14th-century Galata Tower in Istanbul, must remain identical to preserve the resort's identity. Owners are at liberty to adapt the interiors of the villas to their personal specifications. As of 2019, construction stopped amid speculations of financial problems. To date over half of the villas have been sold.