HAMAM, HAMAM! Firuzağa Hamam Painting

Im LuKo! As a queer artist based in Dortmund and a member of the Dramaqueer collective in Istanbul, I draw inspiration from the diverse tales and experiences around me. I have a particular fascination with repurposing old windows from the streets of both cities, using them as canvases for my artwork. These windows symbolize the hidden stories behind closed doors and panes. By transforming them into art, I bring these narratives into the light. My artworks reflect the motifs and individuals from both Dortmund and Istanbul. I work with a range of materials including porcelain and acetate pens, oil pastel crayons, and seal my works with spray lacquer. While I faced challenges due to my portrayal of nudity, it led to my evolution and enabled me to tell the stories of a community that's often overlooked. My motifs can be political, related to pop culture, or personal, frequently prompting discussions about sexuality and identity. Being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I shine a light on queer life in Dortmund and Istanbul, especially in the context of art and social media. In today's digital age, LGBTQIA+ individuals often face challenges ranging from political propaganda to censorship. This leads me to ponder where art truly exists today: in traditional galleries or the digital realm? Our initiative at Dramaqueer Media aims to create a platform for LGBTQIA+ media content, accessible even amidst legal challenges in countries like Turkey. This platform offers space for marginalized media in a climate of political discrimination. In the digital age, LGBTQIA+ individuals confront both challenges and opportunities. While social media can be used to amplify queer voices, it can also be weaponized for censorship and oppression. I look forward to enriching this crucial conversation with my art and perspective.