ZERRIN ATAKAN

ARTIST BIO

Zerrin is a Turkish born, London based artist, who worked as a psychiatrist until three years ago. She is a self-taught artist who began her creative work as a child doing miniature paintings on wood, with her father. As an adult she moved on to oil painting, air brush and digital artwork, creating mostly fine, detailed brush strokes with surrealist themes dealing with environmental and women’s issues. She now works full time as an artist and currently is receiving online mentoring arranged by Turps Banana. Her work was exhibited at the 2021 London Biennale, the Holy Art and Bloomer Galleries, also digitally in Spain. Three of her paintings are currently displayed in galleries in Berlin - Germany, Zug - Switzerland and Palma-Spain. She took part in Dulwich Open House (DOH) art exhibition when she sold three paintings. She will be doing the DOH again this year. In May 2024, The USA based Women United Art Magazine included her to be in the Spotlight along with 20 women artists and printed an article on her, as well as showcasing some of her artwork.


ARTIST STATEMENT

I create fantastical creatures and scenes, allowing my hand to guide me through free association. My inspiration comes from the world around me—nature, human interactions, and the invisible threads that connect us all. I find meaning in seemingly unrelated events, weaving their interactions into my work while exploring environmental and sensual contrasts. In the end, my paintings tell a story.

I research my ideas using photographs I’ve taken or references from the internet. While my images may evoke different meanings for different people, I aim to create arresting visuals that invite viewers to lose themselves in thought. I love the challenge of oil painting—it often feels like a battle where either the paint or I emerge victorious. My technique blends realism with a naïve, expressive touch, celebrating both color and light.

After investing days in intricate, highly detailed works, I occasionally free myself with spontaneous, rapidly executed pieces, allowing my hand to move instinctively across the canvas. This balance between control and spontaneity keeps my creative energy alive.