As long as I can remember I struggled with my own body. Especially the last two years, I have been increasingly disappointed with my body for not healing me. Through my art, I am exploring both the ongoing personal struggle with myself and my body through the lens of feminism, as well as the struggle that I experience with my artistic practice.
Layering paint on top of each other layer by layer makes me feel frustrated because it takes the intuitive painting away from me. Painting thin layers with water mediums such as ink and acrylic paint, allows me to use my body in the process of creating artworks. In my opinion this is also a performance.
I redo most of my artworks multiple times till I make the so-called 'perfect one'. This, I find, is a reflection of my struggle with self-image and the disappointment that I feel with my body.
I work in a series of works. When paintings come together as a series, they empower each other. They make sense together.

Artist statement

Within her work, Ege Ulya Özer translates the fear and negative feelings that she experiences within herself, such as her struggles with her body. Besides, she addresses broader topics such as feminism and intersectionality. Objects like speculums or female body parts are depicted in her paintings. Her vulnerable subjects foster connections and understanding. For example, by painting her vulva, she enables other people with vulvas to relate and empathize with one another, highlighting the importance of shared experiences and collective understanding.

Originating from the many drawings she produces, Özer's work evolves into various mediums. She is interested in the intersection of two-dimensional and three-dimensional work. Her approach is not linear; instead, she explores different styles, working freely and continually assessing what best suits her subject. Together, the series of her work creates a space for empathy and insight, bridging the gap between individual experiences and broader societal topics.

Ambitions

I would like to deepen the connection that I found between 2D and 3D art works and at the moment I use ceramics to investigate that connection. In the future I would like to experiment with other mediums to further deepen this connection. I am also curious about how can I evolve as a painter. Painting is something new to me and the possibilities painting can provide is fascinating.

Learned during the studies

Experiment, experiment and experiment... Do more you experiment, you learn more. Experimentation broadens your horizons.

List of publications / exhibitions / prices / concerts / shows etc.

Ping Pong Club group exhibition, Hysteria (2023)
AG group exhibition , These hands think about you all (2024)
Buning Brongers Prijzen nomination