Esra Kizir Gokcen Painting Workshop

Being an artist from Istanbul; the city in which Europe and Asia meets, has had a remarkable influence on my artistic style. The structure of my works are based on the harmony of calligraphic lines with simplified shapes and symbolic expression. Recalling all the traditional paper marbling, I build up my backgrounds with spontaneous and colourful washes. Using two contrast technics, spontaneous washes and controlled lines together, enables me to emphasise the contrast in life which is the base of all eastern belief systems; yin and yang, mitzvah and sin, life and death… As a migrant artist, I usually compare different cultures and let those observations influence my art forms. Living in London gives me the opportunity to experience diversity and explore innovation while preserving the authenticity of my style. The satisfaction in being able to harness different techniques, adapt those inspirations and express it through my work. I feel I’m evolving deeply and my intention is to express it. This process has started with the decision of relocating to London from Istanbul in search of independance as an artist and as an individual.