Canvas of Dreams: A Journey into Artistic Inspiration
Emel Geris Explores the Fusion of Dreams, Reality, and Cultural Influences
In the vibrant tapestry of Izmir, Turkey, Emel Geris’s journey unfolds, weaving through the artistic landscapes of Stuttgart and Berlin, Germany. From a professional debut during study years to numerous exhibitions in prestigious galleries and cultural institutions, this is the story of a visionary artist whose work transcends boundaries.
The Roots of Inspiration
Emel’s greatest inspirations stem from the ethereal realm of dreams. Despite a profound love for surrealism, dreams take center stage, leaving lasting imprints of symbolic characters that linger for days. The themes explored are as diverse as life and death, dreams and reality, hope and fear—a kaleidoscope of the contradictory facets of existence. Autobiographical elements seamlessly flow into the visual world created, making each canvas a unique narrative.
Motifs as Protagonists
Delving into Emel's visual language, motifs from global art and design history become protagonists on the canvas. The fusion of Asian dragons and characters reminiscent of Caspar David Friedrich's paintings paints a rich tapestry of influences. Since 2022, the allure of oriental and Far Eastern art history has cast a powerful spell on the artist's creations, adding depth and diversity.
The Adventure of Creation
The creative process begins with the sudden appearance of images—a vision or a dream. From that moment, a unique adventure commences. As Emel paints, new content flows into the mind, transforming the initial idea into a fata morgana to be diligently pursued. Motifs are sought, found, painted, rejected, and painted over—a meticulous and reflective process. The use of sand as a painting material introduces complexity, akin to a chess player planning each move. The canvas, once coated with sand, demands careful consideration, as actions cannot be undone. Despite the interruptions, the artist navigates multiple pieces simultaneously, allowing them to communicate and influence each other, creating mesmerizing parallels.
Embracing Change and Variety
Change and variety are the artist's companions, driven not only by artistic considerations but also by a desire to combat monotony caused by ADD. Techniques and materials are interchanged, and different series are explored concurrently. Since 2009, a black-and-white miniature series titled "Tell Me about Life" on wood tells a never-ending story in stark contrast to large, colorful canvases. Even when working on paper, the artist continually evolves, embracing change in techniques.
What do you think about the role technology plays in the art world?
Men always develop under the influence of their time by everything of their surroundings. As everyone differs these influences vary in effect. So I use NFTs not as intended but as a motif collector as it's far too artificial, impersonal, and inauthentic for me. I take a lot of motifs only by my mobile and paint directly from its tiny screen. Surely I have a huge collection of artworks, patterns, furniture, or objects, on Instagram saved for later usage. Sometimes emojis come in randomly as motifs in spaces, it's just fun!
What does well-being mean to you?
Well-being is ecstasy without drugs, only by immersing in a picture.
Being without regret.
To be brave enough, to run without hesitations.
To be free of any constraints, or unnecessary needs.
British humor.
From roots in Izmir to the international stages of Stuttgart and Berlin, emel’s journey is not just a personal exploration but an invitation for us all to embark on our canvas of dreams.
