The newly opened ‘74Escape Gallery & Store highlights the works of Turkish contemporary ceramic artists and designers while presenting a journey into our culture.
The creative contemporary scene in Turkey –both in design and art– has been bustling for quite some time now. Both up and coming young artists and established names produce works that usually draw on the reminiscents of ancient Anatolian culture as well as the modern reinterpretations of it.
One of the platforms that celebrate rising and established artists and designers is ‘74Escape. Emerging from unprecedented times with a stronger sense of unity and solidarity, ’74Escape Store & Gallery champions our wonderful homegrown talent, bringing together artists, artisans, and designers of Turkey.
Blending into the Mediterranean atmosphere of the Paradise Bay at Bodrum Peninsula, ‘74Escape Gallery & Store is curated space for exquisite finds, limited-edition pieces, and bespoke designs, highlighting local artisans and original craftsmanship from different parts of the world.
A STORY OF CERAMICS
Ceramics is a versatile area of work that questions the boundaries between art and craft since human’s first meeting with clay. A relationship that steeped so deep into our culture, ceramic works have been in our daily life since the early years of civilization in many areas of life, from the forms of religious idols to architectural items, decorative objects, and functional vessels.
Creative Director of ‘74Escape, Demet Müftüoğlu-Eşeli says that she has been thinking about the theme “Journey to Our Culture” for a long time, her inspiration being the ISTHMUS Ceramics presented at ISTANBUL’74’s ISTHMUS Exhibition with Jose Parla which took place last September. “When we had talked about having an ISTHMUS Ceramic Series with José, it immediately inspired me for my upcoming projects. José often would describe as archeological findings of our time for the future. It was a labor of love and we were so passionate about the ceramic works. I can’t wait for our next ISTHMUS journey!” recounts Müftüoğlu-Eşeli.
Now, this summer, the selection at ‘74Escape Gallery & Store shines a light on contemporary ceramic production all over Turkey, presenting works of established and emerging artists of different styles and backgrounds. “ ‘Ceramic Works’ reflect the spirit of each individual artist’s deep connection to the ceramic culture,” says Müftüoğlu-Eşeli about her curation for the ‘Ceramic Works.’
Besides including existing works, the curation also features exclusive custom-made ceramic works by Ayşe Tanman, atorie bu (Buket Kınalıkaya), Gülsüm Üzel, Hüseyin Artık, Mesut Öztürk, Metin Ertürk, Pınar Baklan and Zeynep Severge (severj).
MEDITERRANEAN CHIC
The Mediterranean spirit has been closely linked with white airy cotton dresses, handmade jewelry, comfortable handcrafted shoes that reflect the serene atmosphere. In Bodrum, there is a heritage of handcraft that is embedded in the local culture. As ‘74Escape Gallery & Store embodies the heart and soul of each new location, this time it features a Mediterranean spirit-infused collection that includes inspirational designs that celebrate the sunlight and the sea. “All artists and designers at 74Escape Store & Gallery inspired us with their visions and creativity. Our collection presents designs from leading brands as well as brands by young and talented designers,” comments Müftüoğlu-Eşeli.
Timeless forms, meticulous designs, and high-quality craftsmanship defines the curation at ‘74Escape Store & Gallery. The brands that are included in the collection are Anais Margaux, Anim, Aslı Filinta, Bago, Begum Khan, Couth, Dice Kayek, Ethnicloom, Ethnicloom x DNY, Fidelle, Fy-shan Glass Studio, Gül Hürgel, Homemade Aromaterapi, Kai Vrosi, Lar Studio, Lokal Hareket (Oh Seven Days, Juliette, 5th Position, A Hidden Bee, Laika), Lug Von Siga, Mah-Roc, March To Shine, Marche İstanbul, Mehry Mu, Misela, Nackiye, Ninon, Piece of White, Rumisu, R2P, Saye, Serena Uziyel, and Siedres.
‘74Escape Store & Gallery is open between 10am – 8pm at Maçakızı Hotel, Bodrum.
For more, visit 74escape.com and follow @74escape on Instagram.