I relocated to the UK 1.5 years ago as a Global Talent, and my practice has since been deeply influenced by the city and its architecture. During this time, I developed a project titled Shape Library of United Kingdom, in which I created a visual archive of architectural forms by photographing and sketching buildings I encountered across the UK.
By deconstructing these structures into their basic shapes and forms, I built a modular visual vocabulary — a “library” — which I use to create new artworks. These shapes are layered, overlapped, and transformed in large-scale collages that highlight shared spaces and intersections. The library forms the foundation of this evolving series and continues to grow as I encounter new structures, ensuring the work remains dynamic and responsive.
Beyond collage, I plan to expand this exploration into three-dimensional works, where overlapping architectural forms will take physical shape. These 3D pieces will offer a tactile, immersive experience, adding depth and presence to the exhibition.
With this bursary, I aim to further develop the project by producing large-scale collages and exhibiting them in a gallery setting. The funding will support material costs, transportation, and gallery fees. This support would enable me to realise the next phase of the project in a professional and impactful way.
My project, Shape Library of UK, explores how architecture across the country shapes identity, memory, and place. If awarded the Dover Prize, I would focus on expanding the library by researching and incorporating Darlington’s unique architecture, including historic buildings, civic spaces, and everyday structures into my visual archive.
This site-specific work would highlight the distinctive forms and stories embedded in Darlington’s built environment. I would actively engage the local community through walks, sketching sessions, and workshops, inviting residents to contribute their perspectives and experiences. This collaborative approach would foster a sense of shared ownership and connection to the project.
By exhibiting large-scale collages and sculptures based on Darlington’s architecture, the project would offer fresh insights into how local spaces influence our sense of belonging and identity. This would create opportunities for dialogue around the town’s heritage and contemporary creative life.
I am a sculptor whose work focuses on humankind and our intricate relationship with the environment. I draw on elements of urban landscapes such as buildings, streets, signs, and seats, as well as memories, myths, and stories. My goal is to explore the universal human experience of never fully belonging to one place. I encourage viewers to embrace the world as their home and foster a deeper connection to our global community and heritage. I choose cardboard as my primary medium because it symbolically represents humanity’s perpetual state of migration and transience. My sculptures reflect our collective experience, reminding us that as a species, we are always in motion, seeking a sense of home beyond physical boundaries. Cardboard boxes are powerful symbols of mobility and transition. They compress our lives into portable containers as we prepare for new chapters. These boxes carry the hopes, dreams, and memories of immigrants on their journeys to new destinations. I have been exhibiting nationally and internationally for over eight years
Yes, I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sculpture from Hacettepe University, Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Sculpture. I studied there from 1998 to 2004.
I have been fortunate to receive professional recognition and support for my artistic practice. In 2020, I was awarded the Sustainable Art Award, which acknowledged my commitment to environmentally conscious materials and themes within my sculptural work.
More recently, in 2023, I was endorsed as a Global Talent by Arts Council England. This endorsement recognizes my artistic achievements and potential contribution to the UK’s creative industries. It has enabled me to live and work in London, where I continue to develop my practice and engage with the vibrant arts community. Being part of this scheme has also opened up opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional growth.
Yes, I have been actively involved in organising self-created professional opportunities. In particular, I have collaborated with women artists, especially those who are also parents, to create a supportive platform through a series of exhibitions and artist talks. These events provide space for sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and showcasing work that reflects their unique perspectives.
This collaborative approach not only fosters community and networking but also highlights underrepresented voices in the art world. By organising and participating in these projects, I contribute to building a more inclusive and engaged artistic environment.
I have not yet been formally commissioned as an artist by a public institution. However, I view commissions as an important opportunity for artists to engage more deeply with communities and public spaces, and I am eager to pursue such opportunities in the future.
While I have not had a public commission, my work has been exhibited nationally and internationally in various galleries and art spaces, which has allowed me to develop a strong professional practice and build relationships within the art world. These experiences have prepared me well for the challenges and opportunities that commissioned projects can present.
My artwork has not yet been acquired by a public collection, but it has been purchased by private collectors. These collectors often exhibit my work in public venues, allowing wider audiences to engage with my sculptures. I value these opportunities and hope to see my work included in public collections in the future to reach even broader audiences and contribute to cultural conversations.
My artwork has been reviewed and featured multiple times across various platforms. I have been showcased on public TV, in magazines, newspapers, and online curated art platforms. Additionally, I have published three exhibition books documenting my solo projects and have contributed to numerous group exhibition catalogues.
I am not currently represented by a gallery. I prefer to work as an independent artist, which allows me greater creative freedom and flexibility in managing my practice.
I have not yet taken part in a recognised residency or artist placement scheme, but I am very interested in pursuing such opportunities in the future to further develop my practice and engage with new communities and environments.
Email: gokcenataman@gmail.com
Address: 1 Auckland Road, Kingston upon Thames, KINGSTON UPON THAMES London, Surrey, KT1 3BG, GB
Local Authority: Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Council
