What is "Lüfer"?
The pronunciation of "Lüfer" is approximately "Loo-fer" with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "ü" sound is similar to the "oo" in "moon" but with rounded lips.
Lüfer, a fish commonly known as bluefish, is highly important in Istanbul's culture. It is a culinary delicacy, representing the beginning of autumn and the start of lüfer season. Enjoying lüfer meals brings people together, symbolizes Istanbul's identity, and contributes to the local economy.
Lüfer, the artist, was born and raised in Istanbul, a city that holds a special place in his heart. As he reminisces about his childhood, the fish Lüfer emerges as a cherished presence in his life. Like the ebb and flow of the Bosphorus, the fish Lüfer danced through his memories, leaving a trail of significance. Its shimmering scales mirrored the vibrant culture that surrounded him, its flavors echoed the warmth of family gatherings, and its seasonal arrival marked the changing tides of his beloved city. With each catch, Lüfer became a symbol of inspiration, a reminder of the interconnectedness of art and life.
Lüfer's Artistic Manifesto
Artistic Identity
As Lüfer, I embrace the feeling of "aitsizlik" - the sense of not belonging solely to any culture, country, or nation. My art transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, drawing inspiration from the diverse experiences and perspectives that have shaped my identity. As a global citizen, I create art that speaks to the human condition, the universal themes that unite us all, and the educational aspects of human failure.
Influences and Inspirations
My work is informed by a wide range of artistic influences, from the raw expressionism of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Edvard Munch, and the visceral performances of Ron Athey and Franko B, to the bold abstraction of Jackson Pollock. The radical creativity of Antonin Artaud's "Theatre and Its Double" movement, Jerzy Grotowski's innovative approach to theatre, the provocative performance art of Guillermo Gómez-Peña, and the expressive power of Japanese Butoh dance have also left a lasting impact on my artistic practice.
Education and Background
Having earned a BA in Performing Arts from London Metropolitan University, my artistic journey has been a constant process of change and evolution, exploring various forms of expression, including live art, video, and photography. My work has ultimately focused on time-based, spontaneous live art that aims to decolonize the body (in the words of Guillermo Gómez-Peña). Throughout this journey, I have grappled with manic depression and panic attacks, experiences that have informed my art and fueled my creative process.
Core Values
- Personal Experience: My art is a reflection of my own experiences, emotions, and thoughts, providing an intimate window into my world.
- Universality: I believe in the power of art to connect people across borders, fostering empathy and understanding among diverse cultures.
- Authenticity: I strive to create art that is true to my unique experiences and perspective, while also resonating with others on a deeper level.
- Inclusivity: I am committed to creating art that is accessible and inclusive, inviting people from all walks of life to engage with and be moved by my work.
- Exploration: I continuously seek new experiences, ideas, and techniques to grow as an artist and broaden the scope of my artistic expression.
Artistic Vision
My artistic vision is to create a body of work that reflects the complex, interconnected world we live in, celebrating the beauty of diversity and the strength of the human spirit. Through my art, I aspire to challenge conventional notions of identity and belonging, encouraging my audience to examine their own preconceptions and embrace the rich tapestry of our global community. By drawing upon my personal experiences and life itself, I aim to delve into the constant questioning of everything and showcase the educational aspects of human failure.
Guiding Principles
- Embrace change: Recognizing that the human body and mind are ever-changing canvases, I will adapt and evolve as an artist, embracing new experiences, emotions, and thoughts.
- Honor my influences: I will pay homage to the artists who have inspired me, incorporating elements of their work into my own unique artistic vision.
- Be open to inspiration: I will actively seek out new experiences, ideas, and connections, allowing them to inform and enrich my creative process.
- Prioritize experimentation: I will embrace risk-taking and innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice.
- Engage with diverse perspectives: I will strive to learn from and collaborate with