Sinem Yıldırım, Artist

What have you been up to recently?

We’ve just finished a challenging but lovely process for NoLaB’s “Made in Türkiye” exhibition. I did some interdisciplinary works. Currently, I’m working on a mural design for a new place. So, it’s work, work, work.

The tapestry and quilts you made for “Made in Türkiye” are pretty kitsch. Why have you focused on that concept?

Questioning the origin of power of kitsch, Kulka states that kitsch can cater to a wide audience due to certain qualifications such as the fact that it comprises objects with high emotional density or that it can be effortlessly distinguished. In parallel, I wanted to bring together daily kitsch objects with words and sentences.

What are your thoughts on the exhibition?

I loved it, and I think the participating works created a wonderful whole that is in harmony with the decadent atmosphere of Hasköy Yarn Factory. I find NoLaB very successful and inspiring in this regard.

What can you say about being a young artist in Turkey?

If we are to accept that the creative process consists of many contrasts, then I can say that this is a thrilling country for an artist.

Can you name three things that you love to portray?

Innocence, utopia, and contrasts.

Are there any works you cannot keep your eyes off of?

The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt, Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez, Yougn Women Sleeping by Johannes Vermeer, The Sheaf (La Gerbe) by Matisse, The Origin of the World by Marc Quinn… These are just a few off the top of my head.

Is there someone who inspires you?

I think it’d be Jeff Koons. Koons is a contemporary kitsch plastic painting and sculpture artist. I’m impressed by how he derives from popular culture to create his works, he makes great use of the concept of kitsch, and that he does it with great productions.

If you were to recommend us one book, what would it be?

Don Quixote by Cervantes. I love the way it tells us how the society regards Don Quixote as mad but, in fact, shows us that society is the one that is mad. After some time, his virtuous and supreme behaviors seem crazy to us and this conflicts with the society. I think this will always be the case.

What are your plans for summer?

I plan to visit Louvre; I’ve always wanted to see it but never had the chance. I hope to do it this summer.