Artist in conversation: Asya Alpay
“I take a lot of unexpected turns during my painting process, in a way, mimicking life itself”
Asya Alpay's work is deeply personal, her creations are more than just aesthetic expressions; they are a testament to her resilience, strength, and ability to transform personal challenges into beautiful art.
She paints abstracts, creating a visual symphony of colors and materials that dance across the canvas. She incorporates recycled materials into her work, demonstrating not only creativity but also a commitment to sustainability. This unique blend of materials adds texture and depth to her pieces, making each one a distinct representation of her artistic vision.
Alpay's art is defined by its unpredictability, a trait she wholeheartedly embraces. She is a firm believer in the power of uncertainty and personal experience in shaping art. Each stroke, each color choice, and each material used is influenced by her own personal experiences and emotions at that moment. This results in art that is ever-evolving, just like Asya herself.
Her work is not meant to be simply observed, but experienced. It invites viewers to delve into the depths of their own interpretations and emotions. Asya Alpay's art is a celebration of individuality, resilience, and the beautiful chaos of life.
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What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
A while after I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, my therapist suggested I try a form of art where I can express myself. I walked into an art store, bought the most basic acrylic equipment and when I got home to start my first painting, I was instantly overrun with creativity that felt like it had been there my whole life. It felt like second nature to express that creativity on canvas. And I have been working the same way ever since – I simply find ways and new ways to put the overflowing creativity onto my medium.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I frequently use the Turkish evil eye motif as it is a huge aspect of my culture and I am mesmerized by eyes. Mostly though, almost all of my works include metallics, even in my most somber pieces. Whatever the topic, if a painting is highly metallic, there is a good chance it was made by me ☺
Can you discuss a specific piece or project that challenged you as an artist, and how you overcome those challenges?
One of my paintings took over 18 months to complete. I knew I was satisfied with 95% of it, but something about it was just off. I revisited and did touch ups on the painting for months but I just couldn’t get it right. One day, I was in conversation with a considerably more experienced artist and they told me about a very easy technique that they had been using for more than 30 years. I didn’t even try the technique out on spare paper, I just took out the unfinished painting and just like that, it was done. It finally felt right. That’s one of the reasons why I love experimenting in painting.
Could you share how your experience with bipolar disorder has influenced your artistic journey and the unique perspective it brings to your abstract works?
My art journey started thanks to my bipolar disorder. I was supposed to take up painting as a hobby/art therapy, my doctor advised that I try it. I discovered my talent, participated in exhibitions, and now I’m a professional artist thanks to the illness that has given me the most difficult times of my life! It is also believed in medicine today that bipolar disorder is associated with creativity. For me, bipolar disorder brings exploration in different feelings and states in my art. It has really taught me introspection, and that directly reflects onto my artistic medium.
We love that you embrace uncertainty and personal experience in your art, Asya! Can you tell us more about how this approach translates into your abstract paintings? How do you use colors and materials to express your emotions and create a connection with your audience?
Thank you! I know a lot of amazing artists who create meticulous, beautiful work. And of course, I do have an idea of where I want to go with a painting before beginning the painting process, but what I have embraced is that life, emotions, experiences are fickle. So I take a lot of unexpected turns – sometimes U-turns – during my painting process, in a way, mimicking life itself. That, to me, feels genuine, and that authenticity resonates very well with my audience. It’s sort of like an element of surprise that dazzles my viewers.
How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?
Meeting artists during exhibitions is thrilling but, the romanticism let aside, INSTAGRAM! I follow and interact with artists that I like, sometimes we share an amazing convo about art or ideas… I wouldn’t call myself a social media addict, but it does fuel a lot of my creativity.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
I especially value technical feedback very much. I do not have any formal education, so sharing with other professionals can be really enhancing. Criticism from audiences can sometimes be cruel and disheartening, but I still try to make the best out of it. A viewer once apparently thought one of my paintings would at least deserve the fridge if her kid made it, and that is the inspiration behind my painting Fridge Picture. I am always open to, and feed on, constructive criticism.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
I sometimes put a project on the shelf when I hit a roadblock. There have been projects that I have revisited months later. I constantly consume new content, and I know that as these pile up, at one point, I will get the inspiration that I need for that formerly paused project. I’m a really optimistic person, but I have learned to sometimes let go. As they say, if it comes back it’s yours :P
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
I first went international with The Holy Art Gallery, and you never forget your first! I adore their diverse options of exhibitions around the world, I will soon be in their New York show, and intend to be in their other shows in other locations such as Berlin, Italy, Athens in the near future. I think The Holy Art Gallery provides me a great chance for international visibility, and I love that.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
I want to grow as an international artist. I am planning to hold my first solo show this Spring, I have several upcoming international shows, and I intend to participate in more. Most importantly, I want to keep working hard, stay creative and make amazing art.