Ufuk Uyanik
Introduction:
Welcome to the presentation on the renowned artist Ufuk Uyanik and his thought-provoking body of work. In this exhibition, we delve into the captivating world of Uyanik’s art, encompassing diverse media such as painting, mixed-media techniques, and light installations. With a particular focus on his latest creations, Uyanik seamlessly blends art and humor while stimulating dialogue between mediums, styles, temporalities, and cultures. Let us explore how he recontextualizes iconic images, setting new standards for individuality and collective visual memory.
Main Points:
1. Uniting Art and Humor: Uyanik’s recent works embody a fusion of artistic expression and humor. Through his unconventional use of imagery, he creates a dynamic harmony that resonates with viewers. By incorporating elements of popular culture, traditional life, popular and modern painting, lyricism, humor, and irony, Uyanik’s canvases become a tapestry of visual delight.
2. Discourse Between Mediums: Uyanik encourages discourse between various artistic mediums. His exploration of painting, mixed-media techniques, and light installations allows for innovative and unique interactions. By intertwining different forms of expression, he challenges traditional boundaries and expands the possibilities of artistic creation.
3. Cultural Connections and Temporalities: Uyanik’s artwork bridges gaps between diverse cultures and temporalities. Drawing inspiration from masterpieces and masters, he recontextualizes familiar images within a universal framework. This juxtaposition of varying periods and cultural references, infused with his distinct visual language, results in extraordinary artistic richness.
4. Originality and Collective Visual Memory: Uyanik’s artistic approach sets new standards for individuality while contributing to the collective visual memory. His self-elected images and dissimilar original dialect present viewers with a fresh perspective, provoking thought and engagement. Through his innovative and humorous contemporary impact, Uyanik challenges conventional notions of art.
Conclusion:
Ufuk Uyanik’s artistic journey takes us on a captivating exploration of mixed media, humor, and cultural connections. By combining various artistic elements, he creates a visual language that transcends traditional boundaries and stimulates discourse. Through his thought-provoking works, Uyanik redefines artistic standards, leaving a lasting impact on the collective visual memory. It is an honor to present Ufuk Uyanik and his extraordinary artistic universe.
BIOGRAPHY
Born in Turkey in 1963 and studied Graphic Design at a university in Istanbul. While studying I started working for a weekly satirical comic magazine called GIRGIR which had a massive weekly circulation of half a million copies in 80s, 90s.
Moved to Britain in 1988. While suffering with immigrant symptoms I had an encounter with an agent in Belgium who started selling my cartoons to some magazines. Since then, I worked with different agencies in New York etc… and my work was published worldwide.
In 2011, I launched a humorous website which was visited by more than 120 countries.
In 2012, I decided to quit cartooning and had a farewell exhibition where more than 400 people attended.
In 2015, I created an art campaign called MISPLACED CHILD to help refugee children affected by war. I’ve exhibited the manipulated photographs in cafes, venues, schools, universities, art shows etc…to raise awareness and funds for refugee children.
I opened my first major art exhibition with brand new artwork in a 500 sqm gallery in Mayfair, the heart of London – in 2022. Visited by around 1000 people.
My next major exhibition will be in November 2023 with the collaboration of Besiktas Municipal, one of the biggest boroughs in Istanbul. The gallery called Besiktas Contemporary, a 2500 sqm space.
EXHIBITIONS
MiArt Gallery, London (3 – 17 May 2022)
Title: Mixed Exhibition…Mixed Mind…One Artist
ArtAnkara – (Ankara International Art Fair), Ankara –Â (15-18 March 2018)
Title: Misplaced Child
St Christopher’s School, Cambridge (10 March 2018)
Title: Misplaced Child Slide Show – in a play called “Jungle” – Part of Welwyn Garden City Youth        Drama Festival
Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, (28 Oct 2017)
Title: Misplaced Child – Slide Show – in a play called “Jungle” – Part of THE MISPLACED: FACT OR FICTION
Most Art Centre, London – (11 June – 20 July 2017)
Title: Misplaced Child
Stoke Newington School, London – (8 December – 15 December 2016)
Title: Misplaced Child
ZÂ Gallery, London – (6 June –Â 6 September 2016)
Title: Misplaced Child (Part of the Refugee Week event)
Petit Coin Gallery, London – (28 April – 1 June 2016)
Title: Misplaced Child
Stoke Newington Library Gallery, London (9 June – 14 June 2012)
Title: Ufuk Uyanik
- December 12, 2022
