TRAPPED INSIDE

Portrait

Dilek Değerli (Turkish)

Dilek Değerli’s painting showed me that a brush can create poetry as well as a pen.

I have to thank my friend, poet and novelist Muhsine Arda, for introducing me to Dilek’s compelling artwork. Though they initially met as members of Turkey’s circle of poets, Muhsine discovered that Dilek is also a talented painter. Guessing I might be interested in her art, she sent me several images of Dilek’s paintings. Though I imagine some might find this portrait disturbing, it had a strong narrative pull for me. And now hangs on my wall. 

In replies to my inquiries, Dilek shared this woman’s story…

When creating an abstract painting, I normally try to put my own thoughts and feelings aside. However, when I portray a figure, I try to conjure up my own memories and feelings to accurately depict its emotions. Nature is the source of my inspiration. A snail, a spider web, and some plants are on the woman’s face. She is missing nature. She is indoors. She’s lonely and has no outside friends.

 Dilek’s thoughts regarding poetry v. painting are also interesting…

To be honest, writing tires me out. Painting, on the other hand, transports me to a more compassionate planet. It’s a form of meditation or therapy. Painting is as necessary for me as breathing.

 Dilek is a recognized talent in both spheres.