Selda Günes was born in Istanbul in 1978. She graduated from the Interior Design Department of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Marmara University. Günes draws inspiration from nature and architecture. Her first solo exhibition was dedicated to the timeless beauty of Istanbul, and her unique technique combines the Pouring method with specific locations and objects. To draw attention to environmental issues, the artist does not hesitate to use nature-based materials in some of her works. In her new collection, she emphasizes the necessity of pursuing peace and reflects this peace in her paintings.
Selda Gunes is a contemporary Turkish painter known for her dynamic exploration of light, shadow, and spatial perception. Her work is characterized by the interplay of geometric forms, vibrant colors, and a profound understanding of visual harmony and complexity. Gunes’ artistic vision is rooted in the intricate relationship between light and space, which she uses as tools to evoke depth, atmosphere, and emotional resonance.
In her paintings, Gunes masterfully captures the excitement of spaces through the delicate balance of light and shadow. Light serves as a vehicle for creating depth and mood, while shadow introduces a layer of mystery and complexity, drawing viewers into a dynamic emotional experience. Her fascination with geometric shapes reflects a deeper exploration of the harmony and discord between structure and freedom, inviting viewers to contemplate the balance in their own perception of the environment.
Gunes employs vibrant colors and patterns to create lively compositions that transform static forms into dynamic visual experiences. This approach engages the viewer's senses and emotions, offering a dual vision that mirrors the complexity of human perception. The idea of presence and absence is a recurring theme in her work, where the juxtaposition of solid forms with their reflections and shadows encourages deeper contemplation on what is seen versus what is felt.
The artist's creative process is rooted in experimentation, allowing each piece to develop organically. Techniques such as the pouring method are used to blur boundaries and create organic shapes that navigate the fine line between clarity and distortion. This fluidity reflects Gunes’ interest in the ambiguity of perception and the challenge it poses to our understanding of reality. By blurring the lines between what is real and what is illusion, she invites viewers to embrace uncertainty and question their interpretation of the world around them.
Gunes draws significant inspiration from her environment, particularly in the ways light interacts with different surfaces. Observations of these interactions fuel her exploration of new compositions and color palettes, constantly pushing the boundaries of her expression. Her paintings are intended to inspire joy and curiosity, encouraging viewers to immerse themselves in the details and emotions embedded in each piece.
Exhibiting at Miart Gallery in London, recognized as the Best Gallery in the UK, has been a pivotal moment in Gunes’ career. This opportunity has allowed her to showcase her work to a broader audience, inspiring new goals and ambitious plans for future projects. She looks forward to continuing her artistic journey, exploring new themes, techniques, and interactions with space in her upcoming exhibitions.
Selda Gunes’ art is a testament to her commitment to exploring the nuances of perception and the emotional responses it elicits. Through her vibrant, thought-provoking works, she aims to foster a deeper connection between her art and its viewers, inspiring reflection and a renewed appreciation for the complexities of the world around us.