tulip

The Art of Balance: A Conversation with Ebru Artist Sabiha Ozgur

The Art of Balance: A Conversation with Ebru Artist Sabiha Ozgur

Ebru is a result of different factors working hand-in-hand in the perfect balance. Fluid dynamics are at work here: the water’s surface and density, and the interaction of surface, the paint, the surfactant ox gall, the quantity of gall in the paint, and the environmental temperature are all very important. It may take some time to establish the right delicate balance, but when everything is in harmony with each other, the process works smoothly. So, my masters always reminded us that we should be patient, we should do our best, but we should be mindful that it isn’t only us that is making of the art piece – there are many factors at play.

The Story of Necmeddin's Tulip

The Story of Necmeddin's Tulip

Ottoman master Necmeddin Okyay was known as hezarfen (he who practices a thousand arts). He was a master calligrapher, hafiz (memorized the Quran), bookbinder, Ebru artist, botanist, master archer and among other skills. In our times, it is difficult enough to master one art, imagine not only learning but mastering that many different arts.