# Doğan Keser: The Man Who Changed the Course of Turkish Painting ## Early Life and Education Doğan Keser was born in Istanbul, Turkey, in 1936. He exhibited an early talent for art and began his studies at the Istanbul Academy of Fine Arts at the age of 16. During his time at the academy, Keser developed a deep appreciation for traditional Turkish art, but he also embraced the influence of Western modernism. ## Artistic Breakthrough In the early 1960s, Keser's artistic style underwent a significant transformation. He abandoned the figurative painting he had learned at the academy and began experimenting with abstraction. His early abstract works were characterized by bold colors, geometric shapes, and a strong sense of rhythm. ## International Recognition Keser's abstract paintings quickly gained recognition both in Turkey and abroad. He participated in numerous international exhibitions and won several prestigious awards. By the late 1960s, he had established himself as one of the leading figures in the Turkish contemporary art scene. ## Influences and Inspirations Keser's art was influenced by a wide range of sources, including traditional Turkish art, Western modernism, and Islamic calligraphy. He was particularly drawn to the geometric patterns and vibrant colors of Islamic art. He also explored the relationship between art and language, incorporating elements of calligraphy into his paintings. ## Recurring Themes Throughout his career, Keser explored a number of recurring themes in his work. These included the tension between tradition and modernity, the search for identity, and the nature of time and space. He often used abstract forms to express complex emotions and ideas. ## Legacy Doğan Keser died in Istanbul in 2023 at the age of 87. He left behind a vast and influential body of work that continues to be celebrated in Turkey and around the world. His paintings are held in major museums and private collections and have had a profound impact on the development of Turkish contemporary art.
Doğan Keser
Comments