The smell and the sound of colors

What pieces or projects have you been working on lately?
I think this is the hardest question for me, because right now I’m involved in three design projects while continuing to develop my personal project, as an artist and illustrator.

One of the most challenging projects was creating a visual concept for a spiritual guru together with the inSync team. I had to review and rework a huge amount of material and make many sketches to get closer to the desired result.

What did you learn (or unlearn) while working on them?
I’ve learned to gather many references for each project and to immerse myself deeply in the process — to work with color and to combine photography, illustration, design, and my own mood into one whole.

I truly merge with what I do — sometimes I notice that I unconsciously dress in the colors of the image I’m working on.

And what I’ve unlearned… is going to bed on time.

What words, ideas or emotions were going through your head?
Creating alone is good, but right now working in a team feels even better. I enjoy the balance between commercial projects and my personal work. When there’s a pause in paid work, I have time for my own ideas.

It’s hard for me to go through periods of stagnation — probably as it is for everyone. They bring the heaviest emotions, but at the same time become fuel for moving forward.

Were there any conversations, movies, music, or books that made their way into that work?
Music constantly influences my personal project, singingsaw. It moves and changes together with me, just like my creativity. I think they are inseparable. When I’m in a good and productive state, I completely resonate with the track "The Smoke" by The Smile.

What's been the most difficult thing you've faced recently in your creative process?
The hardest thing I faced in my creative process this month was encouraging myself to do and create a little more than I know how to — and to do it more carefully.

What is your favorite coffee shop and why do you like going there?
Right now I live between a small town and my parents’ home in the countryside. The best thing is eating vegetables from our own garden, gathering bouquets, and having breakfast outside.

But if I had to name a specific place, I would choose Müjgan Yeldegirmeni in Istanbul. I have many warm memories connected to that place.

If your life were a movie this month, what would it be called and who would write the soundtrack?
If my life this month were a film, it would be called “Royal Blue. White. Red” or “The Smell and the Sound of Colors.”

Recommend one or more artists you follow who inspire you, and tell us what you like most about their work or their way of working.
I love PJ Harvey. She’s an incredibly multifaceted artist. I admire how she has evolved from her early albums to today, and how she isn’t afraid to share raw material in demo versions. It makes her more open and allows you to touch the creative process itself — as if you hear a naked voice and see vulnerability transform into strength.

And Thom Yorke, of course. I’m fascinated by his projects, including The Smile and Radiohead. I was enchanted by the beauty of "Anima" and felt deep pleasure watching it. Thom and Polly are beautiful, vibrant artists, always moving forward in their journey. I think that’s very valuable.