Figen Tuncel

Who is Figen Tuncel? (1972-Elazığ)

Born in the Keban district of Elazığ, Figen Tuncel embarked on her artistic journey with an impressionist approach under the guidance of her cousin, Saim Dursun. The works she created in the studio of Ayhan Türker, an unforgettable figure in Istanbul landscapes, were a significant turning point in the artist’s development. She subsequently received extensive training in the studio of Hayrettin Sönmez, a modern-day representative of the master-apprentice tradition. Today, Tuncel continues to work in her own studio in Üsküdar/Kuzguncuk.

Art Perspective:
As an impressionist landscape painter, Tuncel aims to convey the simple yet profound narrative of nature on canvas. She particularly emphasizes her interest in the geography of rural areas. The artist argues that the preservation of villages and rural life is vital for a sustainable future. In her view, appreciating and supporting rural areas is a fundamental prerequisite for leaving a more livable world for future generations. The Bolu region, which she describes as the heart of nature, continues to be a source of inspiration for the artist. Tuncel, who captures the light, scent, and feeling of nature—its flowers, trees, houses, sky, and streams—with the different colors, lights, and emotions of the seasons on her canvases using spatula and brush, succeeds in conveying this sincerity in her works. For her, the happiest moment is that magical time when she captures the movement of nature and brings it to the viewer.

“As an original and free-working artist, I aim to add an artistic touch to people’s living spaces,” says Figen Tuncel, summarizing her artistic approach.

Hayrettin Sönmez, describing the artist’s technique, describes Tuncel’s style with these words:

“Figen Tuncel’s paintings embody the subtleties of brush and spatula techniques. In her luminous landscapes, the artist masterfully blends warm and cool tones. The intensity of light she creates across the canvas is the most distinctive feature that distinguishes her works.”