Esra Durmadaneker

"My work explores homesickness, grief and the feeling of living between two cultures. Istanbul plays an important role in this. Because I was born and raised in the Netherlands, the time I spent in Istanbul always felt like a journey of discovery, but at the same time like coming home. Since my grandmother’s passing and the sale of her house, that feeling has changed. In my work, I try to make visible memories of a place and a person who are no longer there, but who have shaped me.

I work from a place of emotion and material research. I use materials such as wood, organza, acrylic, glass and fabrics with personal significance to develop a visual language through which I can express feelings that are difficult to describe in words. Light-transmitting materials and shadows play an important role in this. I also use symbolism, such as the stork, which for me represents travel, not fully belonging anywhere, and remaining connected to family and heritage.

A large flying stork takes centre stage in the work. The piece explores the contrast between freedom and being bound by memories. The combination of heavy materials and transparent fabrics refers to the tension between different identities and worlds. Through my work, I aim to create a space where memories, family history and cultural identity converge.

My work is called ‘Keep sowing', translated from the Turkish phrase Ekime devam et. This phrase refers to my surname and feels to me like a connection to my Turkish heritage. In my art, I try to pass on memories, traditions and culture. Although my grandmother is no longer with us, they continue to live on and grow through my work."

Contact: 
esralea2002@hotmail.com