ERKIN  YILMAZ

 

 

 1. Share a bit about you and how you became an artist.

 

I'm Erkin Yılmaz, based in Ankara, Türkiye, retired after serving 26 years with the Turkish Defense Ministry. My upbringing in Mersin, a coastal city, immersed me in the beauty of vast skies, tranquil seas, and graceful sailboats. These natural wonders sparked my passion for art, inspiring me to capture their essence on canvas.

 

 

 

 

Artist: Erkin Yılmaz, Türkiye

 

 

 

2. For artists who've always lived in their birth country, how does your homeland inspire your art?

Artists who born and raised in different countries, how do those experiences influence your art?

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Can you describe your art and your art style? What does your work aim to say?

 

 

 

 

 

Original Painting by Erkin Yılmaz, Türkiye

 

 

 

4. Who are your biggest influences?

 

I draw inspiration from a variety of artists, both past and present. The expressive brushstrokes of Winslow Homer, the ethereal seascapes of J.M.W. Turner, and, the realism, detail, and color of Steve Hanks' paintings resonate deeply with me, influencing my approach to composition and color palette. Their work inspires me to infuse my own art with a sense of wonder and emotion.

 

 

 

 

 

5. How has your career developed and evolved?

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

 

In the next 5-10 years, I envision enhancing my proficiency in watercolor and perfecting my craft. I aspire to exhibit my work in esteemed galleries worldwide and participate in prestigious exhibitions, connecting with art enthusiasts and collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds. My aim is to convey the captivating beauty of nature through my paintings, perpetuating the dissemination of my art to a global audience and inspiring others with the emotional resonance of my creations.

 

 

 

 

 

 7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?

 

One invaluable piece of advice I've received is to stay true to myself and my artistic vision. By embracing authenticity and sincerity in my work, I can connect more deeply with viewers and evoke genuine emotional responses. This advice has guided me through moments of doubt and uncertainty, reminding me to trust in the power of my own creativity.

  

 

 

 

 

 8. How do you balance your personal life and your art practice?

 

Juggling personal life and artistic endeavors can be demanding, yet I've discovered that maintaining a routine and prioritizing self-care are crucial. Allocating dedicated time for both family and creative pursuits fosters balance and satisfaction in both realms. Moreover, drawing inspiration from everyday encounters enriches my artistry and adds joy to my personal life.

 

 

 

 

 Original Painting by Erkin Yılmaz, Türkiye

 

 

 

 

9. How do you balance social media and your art creation?

 

Managing social media can be time-consuming, but I prioritize quality over quantity, sharing updates and engaging with my audience in meaningful ways while ensuring that it does not overshadow my time for creating art.

 

 

 

 

 

10. Can you share your favorite quote and what it means to you?

 

"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." – Edgar Degas. This quote reminds me of the transformative power of art, inspiring me to create works that evoke emotions and invite viewers to see the world through a different lens. 

 

 

 

 

 

 11. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists or those thinking of starting an art career?

 

To aspiring artists embarking on their creative journey, I offer the following advice: Embrace experimentation and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Artistic growth comes from pushing boundaries and stepping outside your comfort zone. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors, and never underestimate the value of perseverance and dedication in pursuing your passion.

 

 

 

 

 

12. Where can people find your art?