Meet Deniz Cimlikaya | Multidisciplinary Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Deniz Cimlikaya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deniz, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Every topic we discuss about art, in my opinion, involves risk in today’s world. Having a goal outside the norm often scares everyone around you, even a lot. The most accurate thing I can say about this is “don’t listen to anyone.” However, to have the luxury of not listening, you need to work hard and minimize the risk factor as much as possible. Especially in countries where it is hard to sell art, the families of aspiring artists are usually afraid that their children will be left unemployed. Instead of being afraid, I think they should support them, as the support an artist receives from their loved ones is very important. No matter how much risk I took, I generally had confidence in myself because my family and loved ones were by my side, and I continued on my path with excitement rather than fear. If taking risks makes you excited, I say hold on tightly to that feeling. Because nothing that doesn’t excite you can move you forward. The tattoo industry, especially, is very competitive and requires you to constantly update yourself, so you need to ignite yourself. If there is no emotion, there is no creativity; and if there is no creativity, you are no different from anyone else. I believe that an artist should be “different” and set an example in terms of being different and being oneself.

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.
Since the day I started this journey, I haven’t strayed from my vision, and to avoid straying, I developed alternative paths. People call these paths “style.” I have multiple ways of expressing myself, and people highly respect that. Before I got into tattooing, I used to do painting and digital design, so I have a background and have tried to maintain my style across all areas as much as possible. Instead of chasing what’s popular or not, I’ve focused on lighting my own path and seeing more clearly. I’m still moving forward this way. My clients really appreciate this, and everyone I work with often tells me how “special” they feel. Whether it’s a small or big job, I try to give the same care to every project and every story. At the end of the day, we are all “special” and should feel that way. The work I create is shaped according to the person and their story. Instead of doing the same style of work in mass production, I try to push a step further with every job, expanding my comfort zone. I believe the effort you put in is something clients can see and deeply appreciate. So, no matter what the situation is, I always try to do my best and most unique work. Collectors who value my art are also aware of this.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Actually, a few weeks ago, my best friend came to visit me, so I can tell you about him. One of my favorite places is my studio and workspace, so I showed him the studio where I work first. We both love exploring and taking walks, and one of my favorite routes is the “Griffith Observatory” — it has a beautiful walking path, and at the end, you are greeted with an amazing view. And of course, there’s “Santa Monica,” still one of the most impressive beaches I’ve ever seen. We have a favorite “Korean BBQ” spot for dining; honestly, it’s impossible for a meat lover not to enjoy it. One of the best things about Los Angeles, in my opinion, is the diversity. Culturally, it’s very rich, and you can find any cuisine you’re looking for. One of my favorite places to visit in Hollywood is “Amoeba Music.” Whether you’re a music enthusiast or not, I think it’s a place everyone should see. “LACMA” is very close to our current home, so it’s one of the places my wife and I frequently visit. There’s a Jazz event on Friday nights, and it’s a lot of fun. I believe Los Angeles is a place where you can find whatever you’re looking for.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family, who have always ensured my freedom of expression and supported my soul’s liberation from the beginning, is one of the most important factors in my life. I grew up with the freedom to create from a very young age. They noticed my interest in art, guided me in the right direction, and ensured I received the best education. They played a significant role in building my self-confidence. After my family, I would like to thank my wife, Nikol Sedef, who introduced me to tattooing, as she is also a tattoo artist. During a time when I was struggling to decide what to do with my ideas, she introduced me to the dynamic medium of tattooing, which helped me express my art more effectively. In a short time, I made great progress and opened my own studio. I can say that Nikol helped me build my confidence in this field. The tattoo industry is so dynamic that you never know who you will meet. My path has always crossed with wonderful people, and it led to great places. When you walk with the right people, the journey is not only enjoyable but also rewarding.

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deniz-cimlikaya-8a4a24242?originalSubdomain=tr

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cimlikaya

Other: https://linktr.ee/dcimlikaya