Works of Western Thracian artist exhibited in London
The exhibition “In Pursuit of Nothingness”, held in London, brought together traditional Turkish decorative arts with the profound philosophical depth of Sufi thought. Among the showcased works were pieces by Western Thracian artist Sevim Çakır, who has long been known for bringing Turkish ornamental arts to the international stage.
A JOURNEY FROM TRADITION TO THE GLOBAL ART SCENE
Born in 1976 to a family that migrated from Hebilköy to Bursa, Çakır studied handicrafts at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University. She began her artistic career in 1999 at Topkapı Palace, where she worked in restoration and conservation.
In 2001, she further specialized in traditional Turkish ornamental arts under the mentorship of master artist Nakkaş Semih İrteş at the Topkapı Palace courses organized by the Ministry of Culture. Çakır contributed to the restoration of many significant historical buildings in Istanbul and Bursa. Between 2017 and 2019, she served as an instructor at the Faruk Saraç Design Vocational School in Bursa, guiding young artists in the field.
Since moving to London in 2019, Çakır has continued producing her work and promoting Turkish traditional arts to international art communities.
“IN PURSUIT OF NOTHINGNESS” OPENS IN LONDON
Centered around the Sufi concept of “nothingness”, the exhibition opened at the Yunus Emre Institute in London and will remain on display until 30 November. The exhibition presents a selection of works that blend cultural heritage with contemporary interpretation.
The opening ceremony was attended by Turkey’s Ambassador to London Osman Koray Ertaş, Consul General Turan Oğuzhan, London Islamic Cultural Centre Director Dr. Ahmed Dubayan, Yunus Emre Institute Director Mehmet Karakuş, and numerous art enthusiasts.
A CULTURAL BRIDGE
“In Pursuit of Nothingness” offers London’s art lovers a rich cultural experience by merging the spiritual depth of Sufi thought with the elegance of traditional Turkish ornamentation. Sevim Çakır’s works stand out for their mastery of traditional techniques combined with modern artistic expression.
