- Photographer and painter Koray Kasap opened a groundbreaking 3D art exhibition in Morristown, New Jersey, U.S.
- The exhibition, which featured objects and themes from Turkish culture, garnered attention from both Turkish and American art enthusiasts.
In the heart of the United States, a 3D art exhibition, featuring objects and themes from Turkish culture, has brought a taste of Türkiye to the American audience. Koray Kasap, one of Türkiye’s renowned photographers, has unveiled his mixed-media exhibition at an outdoor art gallery in Morristown, New Jersey. This exhibition, a testament to Kasap’s innovative approach to art, has been garnering attention from both Turkish and American art enthusiasts.
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From Photography to Painting
Kasap’s journey from photography to painting began during his education at the Mimar Sinan University of Fine Arts, where he studied the Department of Photography. It was during this time that he took painting lessons from the renowned artist Devrim Erbil. Reflecting on his journey, Kasap expressed that he felt the need to transition from photography to painting.
“I felt that it was time to turn toward painting,” Kasap said. “I decided to take a break from photography and focus more on painting. I believe that painting is both a divine gift and a talent I owe to my father, which I do not wish to claim credit for but rather see as a responsibility – almost like paying a form of ‘zakat’ (charitable giving).”
As a photographer, Kasap had become increasingly aware of the ubiquity of photography in today’s world. Many people believed that every image was a photograph, rendering the medium virtually indistinguishable from reality. This realization prompted Kasap to step back from photography and explore painting as an alternative creative outlet.
3D Art and Diverse Themes
Kasap’s exhibition showcased a unique blend of 3D art, incorporating everyday objects into his paintings to create a more tactile experience. The variety of themes in his works was striking, with popular pieces including “Nefsini Terbiye Eden Derviş” (“The Dervish Who Trains His Soul”), “Ayasofya” (“Hagia Sophia”), and “Filistinli Anne” (“Palestinian Mother”).
Among the most captivating pieces was “Palestinian Mother,” which depicted a Palestinian mother protecting her two children under a keffiyeh. Kasap reflected on the global situation, saying: “We couldn’t do much for Palestine. It pains us. Something that hurts us has been ignored by much of the world. At least I wanted to dedicate a drawing to Palestine in my selection.”
The painting “Palestinian Mother” has garnered significant attention, with the world-renowned jewelry designer Sevan Bıçakçı requesting that Kasap set aside the painting for him. Kasap responded by announcing that he would donate the proceeds from the painting to Palestinian children.
Iconic Inspirations
Kasap’s choice of materials for his paintings also stood out. Rather than using pre-made paints, he preferred to work with charcoal and coffee, which allowed him to create a more transparent and organic surface on the canvas.
Among the works in his exhibition was “Boxer,” inspired by the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. Kasap’s collection also featured several paintings of horses, which he believes hold a significant place in human history.
| Painting Title | Description |
| “Nefsini Terbiye Eden Derviş” (“The Dervish Who Trains His Soul”) | Depicts a mystical scene with a dervish in a meditation position, surrounded by intricate patterns and symbols. |
| “Ayasofya” (“Hagia Sophia”) | A depiction of the famous Istanbul landmark, showcasing the building’s rich history and cultural significance. |
| “Filistinli Anne” (“Palestinian Mother”) | Portrays a Palestinian mother protecting her two children under a keffiyeh, highlighting the struggles of the Palestinian people. |
| “Boxer” | Inspired by the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, this piece showcases Kasap’s ability to capture the essence of his subject. |
Charitable Efforts
Kasap’s commitment to charitable causes is evident in his decision to donate the proceeds from the painting “Palestinian Mother” to Palestinian children. This selfless act demonstrates his dedication to using his art as a means to make a positive impact on the world.
As Kasap reflected on his exhibition, he expressed his gratitude to the people who had supported him throughout his journey. He acknowledged the opportunity to share his art with the American audience and to contribute to the cultural exchange between Türkiye and the United States.
Conclusion
In the world of art, innovation and creativity know no borders. Koray Kasap’s 3D art exhibition has proven that art can be a powerful tool for cultural exchange and understanding.