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INTERVIEW: Turkish Artist Bridges Dreams and Sustainability at Masaha
The ninth cycle of the three-month Masaha Residency is taking place at Riyadh's Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall from 20 April to 12 July, 2025. This program fostered research, public dialogue, and artistic experimentation among participants. Residents benefited from weekly mentorship, masterclasses, historical site visits, and a final group showcase funded by the Misk Art Institute. Cycle 9 welcomed thirteen international and Saudi artists who explored the theme 'At the Edge of Knowing' through art and public programming.
This residency encourages innovative approaches to address pressing global issues, particularly climate change. Among the talented participants is Ayca Ceylan, a Turkish artist whose work exemplifies the residency's mission to foster creativity while raising awareness about ecological challenges. Turkish artist Ayca Ceylan at Masaha
Ayca Ceylan: An Artist with a Vision
Ayca Ceylan describes herself as a 'co-performance artist and environmental writer.' She emphasizes the importance of understanding how 'ecology, technology, and metallurgy create collective healing and sustainable futures.' Ceylan's artistic practice revolves around using art as a tool for awareness, especially in the context of climate change. She believes that art can effectively communicate critical messages about our environment.
Ceylan's innovative projects include AI-generated video pieces and educational texts. She also creates charity-printed sea shells, which showcase her research and creativity. One of her most notable projects, titled 'sandland, oracle codes of the ancient feature,' draws inspiration from her dreams. Ceylan views dreams as powerful vehicles for artistic expression, stating, 'As an artist, I always believe that dreams are a powerful tool for creation.' Turkish artist Ayca Ceylan at Masaha
The Power of Dreams in Art
Ceylan's artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her dreams. She explains, 'Every morning I pray and meditate, and I think about these dreams and hidden messages inside.' This psychological connection to her dreams informs her performances and installations. In her work, she explores the themes of nature and the unconscious mind, creating a profound dialogue between the two.
In her performance, Ceylan recites evocative lines: 'I'm the daughter of the crescent dunes, voice of stations, vessel of coats, and revolt through with me on the scents.' These powerful words reflect her deep connection to the natural world and her commitment to environmental advocacy. Ceylan's performances invite audiences to engage with the themes of ecology and sustainability on a personal level.
A Call to Action
Ayca Ceylan's participation in Masaha Residency highlights the vital role of artists in addressing climate change. Through her innovative projects and performances, she encourages audiences to reflect on their relationship with nature. Ceylan's work serves as a reminder that art can inspire change and foster awareness about pressing environmental issues. As she eloquently states, 'Art sometimes could be a really useful tool to bring awareness about this topic.'
In a world facing significant ecological challenges, Ceylan's vision and creativity shine brightly, offering hope for a sustainable future.
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