2021
antique embroidery gifted by Jale Kutatkubilik, felt, embroidery
42 x130
In the first of a series of embroideries inspired by her 1980’s watercolors, the topic of loneliness and isolation continues. Since such feelings have been revived during the pandemic, the continuation of these feelings seems natural. Who is this female figure in Atakan’s work? Beginning in paintings made during her 1960s fine arts classes, a woman with long legs and without a mouth appears. Being silenced and striving to find voice has been another recurring theme. Since motifs taken from Ottoman needlework inspired designs used in most of her watercolors, the use of antique needlework pieces as a background seems inevitable.