It's All Fun & Games Painting

Havvana Merve Akkartal is a Turkish artist known for her bold and textured paintings that explore themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition. Born in Isparta, Turkey in 1988, she graduated in Industrial Product Design from Yeditepe University in 2012 before pursuing graphic design at Shillington College in London. Her multidisciplinary background, combined with her experiences living in diverse cities like London, Mumbai, and Goa, has profoundly shaped her artistic vision. From a young age, Akkartal found solace in the quiet of her own company and the companionship of animals. An introvert at heart, she spent her childhood painting, drawing, and caring for her various pets instead of playing with peers. Her deep love for animals, who have been her constant companions throughout life, continues to be a grounding force in her art and daily practice. Today, Akkartal still prefers the solitude of her studio, where she paints surrounded by her beloved animals. Akkartal’s creative process is deeply influenced by her love for street art and its raw, urban energy. She has always been drawn to rough, contrasting elements, often blending opposing concepts in her work to create tension and harmony. Her paintings incorporate stencil-like designs, bold typography, spray paint effects, and textured surfaces—techniques inspired by the rebellious and spontaneous nature of street art. The contrasting mix of mediums and styles in her work mirrors the diverse cultural experiences she has encountered throughout her life, giving her art a unique, multifaceted quality. Her latest collection, developed over 1.5 years, focuses on the tactile interaction between materials and explores themes of self-awareness and resilience. The standout piece, "Comfortable in My Own Shell," features a sand-like textured background with acrylic-painted crabs, designed to look as if they are partially buried in the sand. Their body patterns form letters, accentuated with a heavy gloss gel medium to create the illusion of shimmering water. This intricate work reflects her ongoing exploration of the relationship between creatures and their environments, while symbolizing personal comfort within one’s own identity. In addition to this large-scale piece, Akkartal has created three mini versions of "Comfortable in My Own Shell.