We had the good fortune of connecting with Burcu Gunaydin Levent and Ayse Taspinar Gatenyo  and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Burcu and Ayse, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As an independent non-profit organization, Apricot Music & Art operates with a budget that is carefully planned to support our mission and programs. We are fortunate to collaborate with sponsors and supporters who share our vision and provide financial assistance. Additionally, we allocate resources from our own fundraising efforts to ensure the sustainability of our projects. When it comes to personal finances, we prioritize transparency and accountability in managing our budget, making decisions that align with our organizational values and goals. This includes careful consideration of expenses to maximize the impact of our initiatives while maintaining financial stability.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
BURCU LEVENT: As a graduate of visual communication design and with 17 years of experience in the visual and marketing agency, my professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to creativity and visual storytelling. Five years ago, I moved to Los Angeles, where I encountered a new culture and language, which has further enriched my development. These experiences have taught me resilience and adaptability, further reinforcing my belief in the power of art and creativity to transcend boundaries and connect people. Through my work, I aim to use creativity as a tool for understanding diverse perspectives and conveying emotions authentically. I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to my vision. I find immense beauty in our visually-oriented world and see it as a canvas for interpreting human emotions and thoughts in unique ways. I believe that art has the power to unite people and inspire positive change, making every moment dedicated to creativity invaluable.

AYSE TASPINAR GATENYO: As a pianist who began training at the age of 5, I developed discipline early on and made numerous sacrifices to pursue my passion. I traveled extensively for my studies and performances, gaining valuable experiences across different cultures. While pursuing my doctorate at UCLA in Los Angeles, I recognized the importance of fostering better understanding between cultures and overcoming prejudice. My natural ability to communicate and connect with people from diverse backgrounds, coupled with my piano skills, led me to establish Apricot Music and Art. This nonprofit is dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and harmony through music and art. My recent album, ‘Keys for Unity,’ showcases contributions from various cultures to Turkish music and culture. I hope that it will contribute to rediscovering shared cultures and fostering a deeper understanding among people.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
BURCU LEVENT: I would have liked to plan a creative week-long trip in Los Angeles. First, we would explore the Downtown Art District, famous for its colorful murals and urban art. Then, we would visit famous galleries like Hauser & Wirth and The Broad to get a glimpse of contemporary art’s diversity. Additionally, we would visit unique bookstores like The Last Bookstore to experience the classic bookstore atmosphere and discover artistic details.

Among our art explorations, we would also enjoy dining at innovative cafes and restaurants in the Art District. In the evenings, while sipping cocktails at Perch Rooftop bar and absorbing Los Angeles’ creative energy, we would spend time at rooftop bars overlooking the city skyline.

We would explore neighborhoods renowned for their street art, such as Venice Beach and Melrose Avenue. The magnificent atmosphere of the sunset would trigger our creativity. Watching the unique sunset in Malibu at Moon Shadow restaurant, we would be mesmerized by nature’s beauty, leading to the generation of new ideas. Both the beautiful scenery and the flavors of Malibu would be priceless.

AYSE TASPINAR GATENYO: If my best friend were visiting, I would show them UCLA, where I completed my doctorate. We would attend concerts at Disney Hall and dine at my favorite spot in Santa Monica, Elephant Restaurant. To kick off our days with a fantastic culinary experience, we’ll start with breakfast at Shutters, indulging in mouthwatering dishes while soaking in the stunning ocean views. Our culinary journey continues with an amazing dinner at Beverly Hills Il Pastaio, where we’ll savor delicious Italian flavors in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, we would explore the Self-Realization Center and visit the Getty Villa. It’s a well-rounded itinerary combining cultural exploration, delicious dining, and memorable experiences

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We would like to dedicate our shoutout to Apricot Music & Art, an organization that is dedicated to developing cultural exchange programs to promote understanding between people and contribute to the creation of global communities of harmony. Apricot Music & Art’s mission resonates deeply with me, as it aligns with my own values of promoting cross-cultural understanding and communication through the arts. We’re grateful to be a part of an organization that is committed to making a positive impact on the world through cultural exchange and artistic expression

Website: https://apricotmusicandart.org/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/burcu-g%C3%BCnayd%C4%B1n-levent-5420b232?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@apricotmusicandart658

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