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

Hi Zeynep, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because I discovered that I could express myself best through art. Creating allows me to escape the negative aspects of life by constructing surreal worlds where I can find solace and inspiration. Art has always been a refuge for me, a space where I can channel my emotions and transform them into something beautiful and meaningful. This passion for self-expression and the therapeutic nature of art motivated me to follow this path and dedicate my life to creativity.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a reflection of my personal journey, where I translate my experiences of sorrow into vibrant colors and surreal realms inspired by childhood memories. What sets my work apart is its emotive depth and the narrative it weaves between reality and imagination. I am most proud of my ability to infuse raw emotions into my art, creating pieces that resonate with viewers on a profound level.
Professionally, reaching this point was not without its challenges. However, regardless of the obstacles I faced, I persisted in creating art as a means of processing and expressing my journey. Along the way, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about the power of vulnerability in art and the importance of staying true to my unique artistic voice. What I want the world to know about my art and my story is that it is deeply personal yet universally resonant. Through my work, I aim to evoke emotions, spark introspection, and inspire others to find beauty in their own journeys of healing and self-discovery.
Ultimately, my art is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the endless possibilities of imagination.

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.
Istanbul is a city I absolutely love, and I would be thrilled to show my best friend around. We’d start by exploring the vibrant streets of Kadıköy, enjoying its eclectic cafes and bars. For tranquility, we’d relax by the beautiful coastal areas like Emirgan Park. To play tourist, we’d visit iconic sites in Sultanahmet such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. A day in Karaköy would offer a blend of art galleries and trendy cafes, while a scenic Bosphorus cruise followed by a visit to Ortaköy would provide stunning views and delicious street food. Lastly, we’d find inspiration in Beyoğlu’s art scene and wrap up with a peaceful retreat to the Princes’ Islands. This itinerary would showcase Istanbul’s most exciting and serene aspects, making for an unforgettable week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to start by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to my family, whose unwavering support for my pursuit of art education has been invaluable. I am also deeply thankful to my boyfriend, who has been by my side for the past five years. His unwavering support and understanding have been akin to having a second family. In addition, I draw immense inspiration from several influential figures. Foremost among them is Ursula K. Le Guin, whose incredibly motivating writings have profoundly impacted my creative perspective. Furthermore, I am captivated by the films of Hayao Miyazaki, each filled with rich metaphors that resonate deeply with me. His storytelling has taught me the power of symbolism and the importance of conveying profound messages through art.
Lastly, I must acknowledge the pivotal role of Professor Duygu Kahraman, a beloved mentor whose guidance has empowered me to break free from traditional mindsets in academia.

Instagram: @zeyneups

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zeynep-delman-29a076201/

Other: Mail: zeynepdelman@gmail.com

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