Good People of vitruta: Deniz Kurtdere
On vitruta’s social media platforms, in stores, and on the online shop, traces of Deniz Kurtdere’s designs can often be spotted. As one of our most frequent collaborators, Deniz brings immense value to us with her designs and illustrations. Today, we’d like to introduce you to Deniz and ask her a few questions about her world.
Welcome, Deniz! Let’s introduce you to the Good People of vitruta followers. :)
Who is Deniz Kurtdere? What do you do, how did you get started, and what’s the journey been like?
I’m a 35-year-old graphic designer and illustrator living in Istanbul. My journey began after I passed the art department exam at Istanbul Fine Arts High School. I went on to complete my undergraduate degree in Art Education at Marmara University, and then started a master’s in the same field. Initially, my priority was to become a lecturer and I also taught art at various institutions. However, I eventually found my way into the design world.
After working at an agency for a while, I left to pursue freelance work, which I continue to do today. Being able to turn the visual arts—which have always been a part of my life since childhood—into my profession brings me great joy.
Animation is also a field I’m constantly developing in and experimenting with. Whenever I find the time, I create animations and illustrations and share them on my Instagram account, @denizkurtdre.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs and illustrations?
I’d say art history has always been my main source of inspiration. When I’m designing or drawing, I often go back to reading about art history—exploring the lives of painters and designers, the environments they lived in, and the work they created. Trying to truly understand their lives gives me a sense of direction and helps me carve out my own path.
Do you have any particular sources, platforms, or Instagram accounts you’d recommend for design and art inspiration?
I admire all of Paula Scher’s designs. Watching her journey on Abstract: The Art of Design on Netflix left a strong impression on me. I can’t count the times I’ve gone back to revisit her work. On that note, I highly recommend Abstract: The Art of Design to everyone—it’s a great series that dives into the lives and creative processes of designers from various disciplines.
I’m also a big fan of Jessica Walsh’s work. Her unique, surreal style is incredibly inspiring, and her Instagram account, @jessicavwalsh, is a fantastic place to look for creative insights.
In painting, Jana Brike, with her fairy-tale-like, pop-surrealist style, stands out as one of my favorites. And when it comes to exhibitions, visiting galleries around Istanbul is a huge source of inspiration for me. I’d recommend Arter, Sanatorium, Pilevneli Gallery, and x-ist for anyone interested in contemporary art.
Additionally, Salt Galata, located in a historic building, is another must-visit. I love exploring their exhibitions and frequently check out Salt Online for their e-publications—it’s a treasure trove for anyone passionate about art and culture.
What have you been watching and reading lately?
Lately, I’ve been interested in fairy tales, so I started reading The World Fairy Tales Series by Karakarga Publishing. Besides that, I’d say I’m an avid follower of Netflix and YouTube. I really enjoy the content on FLU TV, especially videos featuring Ömer Aygün, Yalın Alpay, and Bager Akbay. Two other YouTube channels I find impressive and high-quality are 140journos and Daire.
What are your favorite places to spend time in Istanbul?
Beyoğlu is definitely my favorite place to walk around in Istanbul. I used to live on Boğazkesen Avenue, where the vitruta store is now located, so I still love wandering through Beyoğlu’s side streets, exploring galleries, admiring old buildings, and then catching up with friends over coffee at Urban. On the Asian side, The Townhouse in Suadiye is one of my go-to spots.
I also love packing a homemade lunch and coffee for a day out in nature. Spending the day walking in the forest in Polonezköy is always refreshing and enjoyable.