Good People of vitruta: Deniz Avşar
One of our dreams when opening vitruta’s new store in Pera was to host exhibitions on the lower floor, creating a space to feature artists. When we shared this lovely idea with Deniz Avşar during a chat, we quickly found ourselves planning Deniz Avşar’s Workshop, which would be the first event at vitruta Space, as ideas just started flowing. After an amazing event, Deniz traveled to Tanzania for two months, and upon his return, we joined him on a sunny September day at his home in Cihangir for a delightful conversation. Enjoy reading!
Welcome to Good People of vitruta, Deniz! Let’s start with our classic question: Who is Deniz Avşar? How did it all begin, how is it going, and what are you up to these days?
I was born on March 10, 1990, in Hamburg, Germany, and grew up there. At 20, I came to Turkey on vacation, and in an impulsive decision, decided to stay and move here. Although the early days were challenging, I eventually adapted and chose to make Turkey my home. After years of working intensely in the corporate world, I decided to leave it all behind to focus on painting. For the past six years, I’ve been solely devoted to my art, and I’m deeply passionate about the work I create.
Your paintings hold a very special place for us. What inspires you? We can see that your work spans different series.
First of all, thank you—that really makes me happy to hear. Inspiration, to me, is something you can find in every detail of life. A scent, a sound, different settings and people—I can draw inspiration from anything. It also shifts with my mood, of course. And there are definitely artists who inspire me as well. A quote by Amedeo Clemente Modigliani, “When I can see your soul, I’ll paint your eyes,” is one that deeply moves me and has guided my work.
On a related note, your first exhibition was also the first exhibition hosted by vitruta Space. Can you tell us about those exhibition days? How did you feel?
It was my first exhibition, and it was a very special week where I experienced all the emotions that come with a debut show. Having everyone I love there during those five days was unforgettable, and I had the chance to spend such enjoyable time with the vitruta team too. vitruta created a truly open space for me, and I felt completely comfortable. For me, vitruta will always hold a very special place because they gave me an experience that was even more beautiful than I had imagined.
We can’t go without mentioning Melis Güven, who introduced us and styled you for this shoot. What would you like to say about Melis? :)
Melis is incredibly special to me! She’s not only a wonderful friend—someone I can even call family—but also one of the people who inspires me. I’ll pass along my thanks to her here. :)
We’re truly charmed by the well-worn look of your Kanken. How many years have you had it, and where did you get it? We’re so curious about its story!
I bought my Kanken 13 years ago in Hamburg, and I still use it—we’re aging together. Over the years, we’ve traveled through dozens of countries, and there are many more to come!
What does Deniz Avşar like to do in Istanbul? Where does she spend her time?
I’m someone who rarely leaves my neighborhood, Beyoğlu—let alone my home and studio. I love spending long hours in the studio. I enjoy spending time with my loved ones around Beyoğlu, taking long walks with my dog, and embracing the calmness.
Lastly, can you tell us your top three favorite brands at vitruta?
Carhartt WIP, Fjällräven, and Rains are my absolute favorites and most-used brands. I have a particular fondness for each of them.
Click here to see the pieces chosen and styled by Melis Güven and featured in Deniz Avşar’s photoshoot.