Artist Statement
Kocaman’s paintings and drawings delve into the subconscious, shaping forms guided by emotions of the past, present, and future. His work reveals the darker, veiled side of imagination, exploring possibilities of thought that weave through cultural, political, and social spheres. In a rapidly changing world, Kocaman’s art offers a timeless connection to the subconscious, where the mind’s efforts to comprehend reality meet the subconscious’s boundless creativity.
Kocaman’s work often features powerful archetypes—the freedom of the Explorer, the folly of the Fool, the allure of the Lover, the power of the Magician—that morph and blend, creating a kaleidoscopic exploration of the self. These roles merge into a collective experience, inviting viewers to see through their subconscious rather than the eye itself. His use of symbology bridges individual journeys with a shared human experience, opening space for dialogue from the depths of our minds.
An underlying theme is the search for belonging beyond birthplace and the isolation of immigration. Through displacement, Kocaman’s work reflects how we adapt to new environments and, in turn, reshape them. His art critiques the fast-paced, capital-driven expansion of modern cities, challenging us to question our dreams and the cost of instant gratification.
Bio
Berlin based artist Turgut Kocaman was born in Istanbul. He has studied and graduated in Istanbul at Mimar Sinan fine arts university- stage & costume design. He has been working as a fine artist, scenographer and stage designer for theaters and art venues.
Kocaman’s projects have been housed within the biggest international Theaters, as well as touring productions, with teams in Germany and Turkey. He took part in award-winning projects, including Best Play of the year Friedrich-Luft-Preis 2023, for “Dschins” at Gorki Theater, and NESTROY 2020 in the category “Best Off-Production for “Dunkel Lockende Welt” in Wien.
Kocaman's paintings are included in private and public collections in Germany and Turkey.
Awards
2023
Maxim Gorki Theater- Dschins - Friedrich Luft Prize
2020
Werk-X Wien- Dunkel Lochende Welt - Winner NESTROY in the category “Best Off-Production.
2010
Ankara State Ttheater - Gizler Çarşısı - Art Institution Theater Awards
Exhibitions
Solo
2023
Obey Art Apace solo exhibition in Berlin
2022
Ferda Art Pplatform solo exhibition in Istanbul
Group
2023
Occulture Conference - Group exhibtion in Berlin
2022
48 Stunden Neukölln group Exhibition in Berlin