He was the co-founder with Guven Incirlioglu of xurban collective (2000–12), and is known for his research-based[1] conceptual art practice.
[2] Hakan Topal attended Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, where he also grew up.
Trained as a civil engineer, during his studies Topal became an active member of the university's activist networks and visual arts community, where he realized exhibitions and performances.
Topal exhibited his collective and individual artworks and research projects in institutions such as the 8th and 9th Istanbul Biennials; apexart, New York; Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary (TBA21), Vienna; Kunst-Werke, Berlin; ZKM Center for Art and Media; MoMA PS1; Kunstwerke, Berlin;[4] Platform, Istanbul and Roundtable: The 9th Gwangju Biennale.
He is co-editor of the book, The Sea-Image: Visual Manifestations of Port Cities and Global Waters[6] which is the outcome of visual research and an international symposium for the Istanbul European Capital of Culture 2010.