Congratulations to Berk Günay for earning his place as the 1st Place Winner in the Boynes Emerging Artist Award 8th Edition [Young Artist Category]!

Who are you?

My name is Berk Günay, and I'm a visual artist based in Istanbul. I received my Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. I've been drawn to creating my own world for as long as I can remember, and for me, art has always been the most suitable space to express my imagination and myself. It's a world where I can create my own reality beyond the reality I exist in. That's what led me to start painting, as a way to bring my inner world to life.

What inspired you to utilize painting as a medium?

I discovered that painting allowed me to express my imagination and feelings in the most suitable way for my inner world. After trying various tools, I found that oil paint was the most compatible with me. The possibilities that oil paint offers fully align with the world I want to create, allowing me to bring my artistic vision to life.

How would you describe your work?

My works are a reflection of my innermost self, like screams from the depths of my soul that can never be silenced. My art is a way for me to convey my feelings, and memories are the reference for my emotions and feelings. Memories are the experiences of our soul, and they often serve as a source of inspiration for my work.

Can you discuss the inspiration and thought process behind your winning work?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I spent a lot of time at home in quarantine, which made me realize how much my perception of space had changed. I began to see that what really matters is not where we are physically located, but how we feel and what we are going through. This realization led me to create my winning artwork, titled "Connection." My goal with this piece was to emphasize that although we may be in different places or times, we are all connected in some way. To convey this message, I combined figurative realism, abstract art, and symbolist elements in a captivating composition. Inspired by the Zen philosophy of connecting with everything to connect with oneself, as well as the belief that water is the beginning of everything and remembers everything, "Connection" features figures drawn towards water as a symbol of the connection between humans and nature. By comparing water to the art of Ebru, a form of paper marbling, the figure sees the reflection of its future instead of its own reflection, adding a mystical layer to the artwork. I also used colors derived from natural energy stones to paint the colored fluid spots in the water, giving the painting an ethereal quality. Ultimately, "Connection" takes viewers on a journey from the microcosmos to the macrocosmos, inviting them to contemplate the infinite connections that exist in the universe.

Can you walk us through the technical steps of creating “Connection”?

"Connection" is a realistic oil painting on canvas that features three central figures. The use of oil paints allows for a range of textures and subtle variations in color, adding depth and complexity to the image. Abstract elements are present in the swirling patterns of the water, created through a combination of layering and glazing techniques. Natural energy stones are used to derive the colors in the water, lending an ethereal quality to the painting. Symbolist elements depict the connection between humans and nature, with the figures drawn towards the water.

What do you hope to communicate to an audience with your work?

With my work, I hope to reach people who share my feelings and experiences, and to share my artistic world with them. I believe that art has the power to connect people, and that it can convey emotions and ideas that are difficult to express through words alone. Through my work, I aim to create a sense of connection and understanding between myself and my audience.

Have you experimented with other mediums?

Yes, I have had the opportunity to experiment with a variety of materials, including digital painting, sculpture, crayon, acrylic, stained glass, charcoal, and collage. However, oil painting has always been my primary medium of choice because of its versatility and compatibility with my artistic vision. I enjoy trying new techniques and materials, and I believe that experimenting with different mediums is important in developing one's artistic voice. 

Can you talk about your biggest learning experience during the process of creating your work?

One of my biggest learning experiences came when I had a lack of materials while trying to fill a large area. I discovered that the stains and bumps that occurred from using small tools, like a small brush or piece of charcoal, actually created an emotional effect that enhanced my work. 

Can you discuss your biggest success since starting your artistic journey?

My biggest success has been continuing to pursue my passion despite facing challenging conditions and obstacles. I consider it a success because it has allowed me to stay true to my beliefs and artistic vision. It was achieved by continuously pushing myself and never giving up on my dreams.

What projects are you working on currently?

Currently, I am experimenting with creating a different size and depth in my paintings. I am exploring ways to create a distance between the figure and object within the painting using techniques like thinner or thicker paint and auxiliary materials such as impasto or beeswax. 

What is your dream project or piece you hope to accomplish?

As an artist, my dream project would be to create a large-scale installation that incorporates different forms of media and engages the viewer in a multisensory experience. I am fascinated by the potential of art to transform space and to create a sense of community, and I would love to explore those themes in a project that brings together different disciplines and perspectives. 

As a winner, do you have any advice for artists who want to submit to awards, competitions, residencies, etc.?

Yes, my advice for artists who want to submit to awards, competitions, residencies, etc. is to be persistent, focused, and true to your vision. It's important to do your research and find opportunities that align with your goals and interests, but it's equally important to stay committed to your work and to keep pushing yourself to grow and evolve as an artist. Don't be afraid to take risks and to put yourself out there - even if you face rejection along the way, every experience is a chance to learn and to improve. 

Lastly, I like to ask everyone what advice they would give to their fellow artists/photographers, what is your advice?

My advice to my fellow artists and photographers is to stay curious, stay open, and stay connected. Creativity is a process of exploration and discovery, and it requires a willingness to take risks, to experiment, and to learn from failure. It's also important to seek out inspiration and to engage with other artists and communities, whether through exhibitions, workshops, or online forums. By staying engaged and connected, we can continue to grow and evolve as artists and to make meaningful contributions to the world around us. 

To view more of Berk Günay’s work

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