The theme of independence has been addressed by many artists in different periods, particularly in the context of concepts such as resistance, war, and rebirth. In this context, the reflection of the historical background of the independence struggles of Turkic states in painting is quite significant. This fundamental understanding, which plays an important role in the formation of Turkish identity, resulted in the establishment of Turkish states under different names throughout history. This study aims to examine the reflections of the independence struggles of Turkic states in painting within their historical, socio-political, and cultural contexts. A broad historical framework, extending from the War of Independence to the independence movements in the Soviet era and the cultural construction processes of Turkic states that gained their independence after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, has been addressed by artists. The research was conducted using the document analysis technique, one of the qualitative research methods; selected works were evaluated in terms of form and content through purposive sampling. Artists represented the idea of independence through symbolic images based on themes such as heroism, resistance, tragedy, national unity, and cultural identity. The findings show that art has a critical role in the construction of national identity and the reinforcement of ideals of independence.
Turkic States, painting, independence, National Struggle.