Cevdet Akman: Fine Artist & Designer
Cevdet Akman was born in Turkey with an innate passion for creativity. From a young age, he found joy in expressing himself through painting, drawing, and sketching, drawing inspiration from the vibrant nature and people around him.
During his school years, Akman’s love for art manifested in his frequent excursions to forests, where he found solace in capturing the intricate details of trees. His talent was evident as he even assisted his classmates with their art assignments, relishing in the opportunity to contribute to the world of art. It was during this time that he felt an insatiable desire to explore different mediums, seeking to enhance his drawing techniques.
In the 1970s, Akman began sketching with ballpoint pens, as other mediums like oil and watercolor were financially out of reach. He found solace in creating art while traveling on buses and trains, documenting his surroundings with meticulous detail. These early experiences shaped his artistic journey during his time at the French University in Ankara.
Akman’s artistic career took off with his first exhibition at the French Cultural Gallery in 1977. Following its success, he continued to showcase his work in Istanbul under the theme “MECHANISATION of MAN.” Utilizing blind individuals as his models, Akman captured the essence of humanity in its purest form. This unconventional approach allowed him to create over 150 pictures of varying sizes, culminating in sixteen exhibitions centred around the theme of “MECHANISATION of MAN.”
In 1978, Akman embarked on a new chapter of his artistic development, studying at the prestigious “Hoch Shule Fur Angevante Kuns” in Vienna under the guidance of Professor Wolfgang Hutter. This experience broadened his artistic horizons and deepened his technical skillset.
Throughout his career, which spans from 1975 to the present day, Akman has balanced his work in the interior design sector with his pursuit of artistry. He has successfully completed numerous projects in the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, showcasing his versatility and expertise.
Akman’s artistry has garnered acclaim and recognition, with notable exhibitions at esteemed venues such as Harvey Nichols in London in 1995, Highgate Lauderdale House for a private exhibition, and a group exhibition in Trafalgar Square in 2000. His unique technique and artistic prowess led him to create a special portrait for Her Majesty Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2000, which was graciously accepted as a unique and special gift.
Akman emphasises that the ballpoint pen technique is not as straightforward as it may appear, as there is no room for erasures or corrections like in oil painting. Creating intricate compositions with figures and settings requires meticulous planning and multiple sketches before finalizing the artwork over the course of about a year and a half.
For Akman, art transcends mere aesthetics. It delves into the depths of life, exploring different stages, meanings, and explanations. His work embodies a unique and captivating technique, intertwining beauty with profound insights about the human experience.
Experience the captivating beauty of art with Cevdet Akman, as he invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and contemplation through his remarkable creations.