Merve Yenigeldi

Centering the figure in my creative process, the self-renewing cycle of the relationship between human, nature,and society holds an important place. The subjects I have concentrated on recently present a perspective hovering on the borders of the conscious and subconscious regarding the impact of our living environment on the individual and society, while referencing the concepts of destruction and reconstruction. In my paintings,where appearances belonging to individual and collective memory coexist, I construct a symbolic visual language that brings to mind various scenarios concerning human ecological interactions while tracing current affairs. Another dimension of the creation-destruction cycle between human and nature that I wish to draw attention to is the concept of consumption. Given the existence of marginal consumption today, I find it meaningful to prompt reflection on the sustainability of resources for the continuation of life.

In my current productions, there is a shift toward organic, sustainable, or recycled materials such as paper produced from waste materials—primarily cardboard boxes—paper pulp, wood, hemp, and paper twine. In my expressive language, which expands through different practices such as drawing, painting, engraving,serigraphy, and installation, it is important to convey the voice of the material. Therefore, in my production process, I prioritize preserving the character of recycled materials. When necessary, I repair the torn or worn sections of these materials by sewing them, or combine separate pieces using natural thread to obtain a larger surface. Choosing cardboard boxes and papers obtained from recycled materials not only relates to the self-renewing cycle of nature and human beings but also serves the purpose of drawing attention to the sustainability of resources. Accordingly, I purchase materials and paper from local businesses that use organic and/or recycled materials. I continue my work on materials through natural matters such as paper, paper pulp,waste cardboard boxes, and wood produced in line with the evaluation of waste materials.

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