Asli Dogru — Contemporary Art Curator Magazine

https://www.aslidogru.com

Asli Dogru’s artwork occupies a fascinating realm where the mythical intertwines with the surreal, the ancient collides with the modern, and the viewer is drawn into a profound narrative of timelessness and transformation. Her talent as an artist lies in her ability to blend diverse mediums, philosophies, and imaginative landscapes into visual experiences that are not only aesthetically captivating but also deeply reflective. A visionary in contemporary art, Dogru offers a body of work that is both groundbreaking and meaningful in its exploration of human experience, mythology, and the sublime.

Asli’s artistic journey is as dynamic and layered as her art. Born with a penchant for creativity, she honed her skills through formal education, earning a BA in Studio Arts, Painting from the prestigious Marmara University, Faculty of Fine Arts in Istanbul. This rigorous academic foundation gave her a strong command of traditional techniques, yet her passion for experimentation led her to delve into disciplines such as photography, ceramics, and interior design. These varied influences are evident in the multifaceted nature of her work, which often feels like a synthesis of multiple art forms. Upon moving to Atlanta nearly two decades ago, Dogru faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture and language, a journey that imbued her art with a sense of resilience and transformation.

Dogru’s ability to find beauty and meaning in the interplay of water and ancient stones exemplifies her philosophy as an artist. She speaks of these elements as symbols of purification, mystery, and timelessness—concepts that resonate deeply with viewers on both a personal and universal level. Her fascination with such motifs evokes comparisons to the Romantic artist Caspar David Friedrich, whose landscapes similarly explored themes of transcendence and the sublime. However, while Friedrich’s work often focused on the individual’s insignificance in the face of nature, Dogru’s art invites the viewer into an active dialogue with her fantastical worlds, encouraging reflection, imagination, and personal connection.

Asli Dogru’s “Surreal Scapes Series” is a testament to her skill in conjuring otherworldly realms that feel simultaneously ancient and futuristic. In these works, towering structures emerge from swirling, dreamlike waters, evoking the grandeur of lost civilizations while hinting at a post-apocalyptic rebirth. The use of soft, ethereal colors enhances the dreamlike quality of these compositions, drawing the viewer into a meditative state. The interplay between architecture and nature in these pieces also reflects Dogru’s ability to merge opposing forces, creating a harmonious balance between the structured and the organic, the tangible and the intangible.

In her work “Falling Through Time” (2024), Dogru’s exploration of the human form takes center stage. This piece, rendered with remarkable anatomical precision and emotive power, depicts figures suspended in dynamic motion, as though caught in a liminal space between past and future, existence and oblivion. The composition is imbued with a sense of gravity and weightlessness, capturing the tension and vulnerability inherent in the human condition. This ability to convey complex emotional states through form and movement places Dogru in the lineage of masters such as Michelangelo and Rodin, yet her contemporary sensibilities make the work distinctly her own.

Dogru’s adaptation of Rubens in her 2022 work is another striking example of her ability to reinterpret classical art through a modern lens. By reimagining the dramatic energy and emotional intensity of Rubens’ compositions, Dogru not only pays homage to the Baroque master but also asserts her voice as a contemporary artist with something urgent to say. This piece exemplifies her mastery of storytelling, as well as her deep understanding of art history and its relevance to contemporary discourse.

What sets Dogru apart in the contemporary art scene is her unwavering commitment to storytelling. Her work is not merely decorative; it is a medium through which she invites viewers to embark on a journey of discovery. The mythical creatures and enchanting landscapes she creates are not just figments of imagination but symbols of deeper truths about humanity’s relationship with nature, history, and the self. In a world increasingly dominated by digital distractions and superficial engagements, Dogru’s art serves as a reminder of the power of contemplation and imagination.

Dogru’s personal journey also enriches her art with authenticity and depth. Her experiences as an immigrant and a woman navigating new cultural landscapes are subtly embedded in her work, adding layers of meaning that resonate with viewers from diverse backgrounds. Her decision to pursue a career in graphic and web design while continuing to create fine art reflects her adaptability and resourcefulness—qualities that undoubtedly influence her innovative approach to visual storytelling.

Dogru’s artistic practice underscores the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration. Her background in photography, ceramics, and interior design informs her ability to think beyond traditional boundaries, resulting in works that feel both expansive and cohesive. This interdisciplinary approach is especially relevant in today’s art world, where the blending of mediums and ideas is increasingly celebrated as a hallmark of innovation.

Dogru’s art also carries a profound philosophical dimension. By exploring themes of purification, transformation, and timelessness, she encourages viewers to reflect on their place in the world and the passage of time. Her fascination with water as a purifying force and ancient stones as symbols of permanence creates a dialogue between the ephemeral and the eternal, prompting questions about the nature of existence and the legacy we leave behind.

In comparing Dogru to a notable figure from the past, her work aligns with the spirit of William Blake, the 18th-century poet and artist who similarly blended mythology, philosophy, and visionary imagery to challenge conventional perceptions of reality. Like Blake, Dogru creates art that is deeply personal yet universally resonant, inviting viewers to see the world through a lens of wonder and introspection.

Dogru’s work is vital for its ability to bridge the gap between the ancient and the modern, the mythical and the real. At a time when society is grappling with questions of identity, environmental stewardship, and cultural heritage, her art offers a space for reflection and dialogue. By creating fantastical landscapes that feel both familiar and otherworldly, she reminds us of the power of imagination to transcend boundaries and connect us to something greater than ourselves.

Asli Dogru’s art is a testament to her immense talent, vision, and dedication to her craft. Her unique ability to merge diverse influences, techniques, and themes into cohesive and compelling works places her among the most exciting voices in contemporary art. Her exploration of mythical landscapes, the human form, and the interplay between nature and architecture not only captivates the viewer but also challenges them to think deeply about their own place in the world. As an artist, storyteller, and philosopher, Dogru continues to enrich the contemporary art scene with her distinctive perspective and boundless creativity. Her work is not just important—it is essential, serving as a beacon of inspiration and imagination in a rapidly changing world.

Asli Dogru's art represents a convergence of mythology, surrealism, and contemporary sensibilities, forming a style that is entirely her own. Her work stands out for its ability to merge the timeless with the modern, imbuing her fantastical landscapes and figures with a sense of profound narrative depth and emotional resonance. What sets her apart is her meticulous attention to detail combined with her ability to evoke the intangible—her pieces seem to straddle the line between dreams and reality, offering viewers a portal into worlds that feel both ancient and eternal, yet brimming with contemporary relevance.

Her style is characterized by the seamless interplay of fluidity and structure. Water, a recurring motif in her works, reflects her fascination with the duality of life: ever-changing yet essential, transient yet perpetual. This element flows alongside depictions of monumental architectural structures and mythical figures, creating a balance between the ephemeral and the enduring. Her use of soft, muted tones, interspersed with moments of vibrant contrast, reinforces this duality, drawing viewers into her pieces with an almost meditative pull. Her compositions are layered with symbolism, often leaving open-ended interpretations that invite personal reflection, making her work deeply engaging and thought-provoking.

What makes Dogru’s art truly unique is her ability to blend classical influences with modern themes, while maintaining a distinctive voice that feels fresh and deeply personal. While her works draw inspiration from art history—recalling the dramatic intensity of Baroque masters like Rubens and the transcendental, mystical quality of Romantic painters such as Friedrich—her artistic vision is undeniably her own. Dogru’s use of surreal elements elevates her work to a contemporary context, allowing her to address universal questions about humanity, time, and existence.

Her reinterpretation of classical forms is not a mere homage but a reinvention. She takes the grandeur of classical compositions and infuses them with surreal, dreamlike elements, creating a dynamic tension that feels simultaneously familiar and otherworldly. For instance, her exploration of the human form showcases an unparalleled understanding of anatomy and movement, but these forms are often placed in ethereal, impossible settings, as though suspended in a dreamscape. This juxtaposition between technical mastery and imaginative freedom makes her art not only visually stunning but also intellectually stimulating.

Her use of mythical themes and archetypal symbols lends her work a timeless quality, connecting it to the collective unconscious in ways that resonate across cultures and generations. At the same time, her focus on environmental elements like water and ancient stones brings a contemporary awareness to her work, reminding viewers of the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.

Dogru’s art is deeply important for society because it fosters introspection, imagination, and connection in a world that often prioritizes speed and superficiality. Her work reminds us of the power of storytelling and myth, which have been central to human culture for millennia. By reimagining ancient symbols and motifs in a modern context, Dogru bridges the gap between past and present, showing that the stories and ideas of our ancestors still hold relevance in today’s world. This continuity offers a sense of grounding and perspective, encouraging viewers to reflect on the broader arc of human history and their place within it.

In an age where environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, her use of water as a recurring motif carries profound significance. Water, in Dogru’s work, represents not only purification and renewal but also the delicate balance of life. Her exploration of this element can be seen as a metaphor for the need to protect and cherish the natural world, a message that resonates strongly in contemporary society. By pairing this motif with ancient structures and mythical imagery, Dogru suggests that humanity’s relationship with nature is both a legacy and a responsibility—something that must be nurtured and preserved for future generations.

Moreover, Dogru’s art is important for its ability to create spaces for reflection and imagination. In a society that often prioritizes productivity and external achievements, her work invites viewers to pause and engage with their inner worlds. Her fantastical landscapes serve as meditative spaces, where one can lose oneself in the interplay of light, form, and emotion. This emphasis on the imaginative and the introspective is vital in fostering creativity, empathy, and self-awareness—all of which are essential for a healthy and thriving society.

Dogru’s art also has a unifying quality. By drawing on universal symbols and themes, she creates work that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, speaking to the shared experiences and aspirations of humanity. Her pieces resonate with viewers from all walks of life, reminding us of our common humanity and the timeless questions that unite us.

Asli Dogru occupies a unique and significant place in the contemporary art scene, standing at the intersection of tradition and innovation. In an era where digital art and conceptual installations often dominate, Dogru’s focus on classical techniques, such as drawing and painting, combined with her contemporary, surrealist vision, offers a refreshing and compelling perspective. Her work is a reminder that traditional mediums still have the power to communicate profound and relevant ideas, especially when approached with the level of creativity and technical skill that Dogru brings to her practice.

Her ability to blend multiple disciplines—painting, graphic design, photography, ceramics—positions her as a truly interdisciplinary artist, capable of pushing the boundaries of what fine art can be. This versatility reflects the increasingly fluid nature of the contemporary art world, where artists are expected to navigate and integrate a wide range of mediums and influences. Dogru does this effortlessly, creating work that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Dogru’s work is particularly valuable for its ability to address timeless themes in innovative ways. While many contemporary artists focus on political or social commentary, Dogru’s work takes a more philosophical and introspective approach, exploring questions of identity, existence, and humanity’s relationship with the natural and the divine. This focus on the universal and the eternal distinguishes her from many of her peers, positioning her as a vital voice in the contemporary art landscape.

Dogru’s adaptability and resilience as an artist also make her an inspiring figure within the art community. Her journey—from studying fine arts in Istanbul to working odd jobs in Atlanta, to mastering new skills in graphic and web design—demonstrates an unwavering commitment to her craft and a willingness to evolve with the times. This spirit of perseverance and reinvention is emblematic of the contemporary artist, and it adds depth and authenticity to her work.

Asli Dogru’s art is a triumph of imagination, skill, and philosophy. Her unique ability to blend the classical with the contemporary, the mythical with the surreal, and the personal with the universal makes her a standout figure in the contemporary art scene. Her work is not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful, offering viewers a space to reflect on the timeless questions of existence, identity, and humanity’s place in the world.

In a society increasingly disconnected from nature, history, and introspection, Dogru’s art serves as a vital reminder of the power of storytelling, imagination, and connection. Her exploration of water, ancient stones, and mythical landscapes carries profound messages about the importance of preservation, renewal, and the interconnectedness of life. By creating art that is both grounded in tradition and forward-looking in its vision, Dogru bridges the gap between past and present, offering a unique and much-needed perspective in the contemporary art world.

Dogru’s place in the contemporary art scene is secure as a visionary artist whose work transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. Her art challenges us to see the world—and ourselves—in new ways, fostering a sense of wonder and reflection that is sorely needed in today’s fast-paced, often fragmented world. Asli Dogru is not just an artist; she is a storyteller, a philosopher, and a bridge between the ancient and the modern, the real and the imagined. Her art is a vital addition to the cultural fabric, and her artistic legacy is certain to inspire and leave a lasting impact over time.

By Marta Puig

Editor Contemporary Art Curator Magazine