Deniz Kurdak, a London-based artist, finds inspiration in the motif of ceramics, particularly blue-and-white porcelain. This style, originating in China in the 7th century, holds a special place in Kurdak’s heart as it reminds her of her grandmother’s home. Themes of identity, belonging, and memory are central to Kurdak’s work, as she draws on personal histories and real objects that evoke a sense of familiarity.
Kurdak’s childhood was marked by seeking refuge in her grandparents’ home from an abusive father. It was in this safe and nurturing space that she developed a passion for textiles and embroidery, skills passed down to her by her grandmother. Transforming traditional notions of needlework, typically seen as “women’s work,” Kurdak infuses her craft with emotion and narrative, using it as a tool for emotional repair and exploration of her personal history.
Embroidery, known for its calming and meditative qualities, serves as both a medium and a means of reflection in Kurdak’s artistic process. Through her intricate stitches, she conveys the themes of breakage, suddenness, and the delicate balance between ornamentation and functionality.
Exploring dualities such as fragility and resilience, belonging and displacement, Kurdak juxtaposes the brittleness of porcelain with the pliability of fabric and thread. Her compositions often feature blue-and-white porcelain motifs, but she also experiments with red, green, and multi-colored pieces, employing a variety of needlework and fabric techniques like appliqué, lacework, and embroidery to create dynamic and visually striking artworks.
Currently, Kurdak’s work can be seen in the “Willow” exhibition at the Young Masters Art Prize Finalists Exhibition in London. She will also be featured in the upcoming Collect Art Fair at Somerset House and the Affordable Art Fair in New York. To learn more about Deniz Kurdak and her art, visit her website and follow her on Instagram.
In her art, Deniz Kurdak beautifully captures the essence of belonging, memory, and personal history through the intricate and evocative medium of embroidery. Her unique approach to traditional needlework breathes new life into the age-old craft, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience through the lens of delicate porcelain motifs and vibrant textile compositions.
