Some Minutes of Relaxation in a Cotton Field Painting

Born and raised in Omsk, Western Siberia, Russia, I grew up surrounded by the rich and untouched nature of forests, rivers, and open landscapes. This early connection to the natural world profoundly influenced my perception of beauty and harmony. My first encounter with art was during my childhood in Russia, where I found joy in expressing myself through drawing and experimenting with colors. These simple beginnings sparked a lifelong passion. While I formally studied art in Russia, it wasn’t until I moved to Antalya, Turkey, that I began painting actively. Living amidst the Mediterranean’s vibrant landscapes, the sea, waterfalls, and mountains further fueled my creativity. The pandemic became a turning point, as it encouraged me to share my art with the world and embrace the identity of an artist. Are there any key themes, messages, or theories behind your work? My work is deeply rooted in a dialogue with nature, exploring themes of freedom, harmony, and transformation. I seek to capture the energy and emotions of the world around me, blending abstraction with natural forms. Through my paintings, I aim to evoke a sense of connection—both to the earth’s beauty and to the unspoken emotions within ourselves. The use of vivid colors and dynamic compositions is a reflection of life’s contrasts and the interplay between chaos and balance. Could you tell us a bit about your artistic approach? (Style, medium, and specific techniques.) I am drawn to the versatility and depth of oil painting, often mixing it with other mediums like pastels and acrylics to expand creative possibilities. My style leans toward abstraction, allowing me to express emotions freely without the constraints of realism. My first mentor, Hamdi Dinçel, taught me to remove boundaries and embrace artistic freedom, a lesson that shapes my approach to this day. Each piece begins with an intuitive process, layering textures and colors to create a tactile and immersive experience. I also experiment with palette knives and bold brushwork to add energy and movement to my work. Personal quote: “Art is the bridge between the seen and unseen, where emotions and nature merge to tell their stories.”