Painter Azmi Atilla opened his exhibition, 'Art Inspired by the Depths of Anatolia: Azmi Atilla's Enchanting Paintings,' at SANKO Art Gallery.
Azmi Atilla stated that he brings the thousands of years of history and rich cultural heritage of Anatolia to his canvases, saying, "From the mystical symbols of Göbeklitepe to Hittite, Urartu, and Seljuk motifs, I combine modern art with traditional art forms by reflecting the splendor and deep roots of these lands in my works."
Atilla, explaining that his works reflect the rich history and cultural wealth of Anatolia, continued:
"By blending the symbols of Göbeklitepe with vibrant colors, I revive the spirit of ancient times with modern touches. My works, offering art lovers an unforgettable experience both historically and artistically, build a strong bridge between the past and the present.
My paintings emphasize the universal value of Anatolian culture while also showcasing how this heritage can be transformed into a contemporary and modern narrative. Every work I transfer to canvas conveys the timeless power and depth of culture; it offers the viewer the opportunity to discover the story hidden in every line and motif of Anatolia."
Recalling that Anatolia has hosted many different civilizations, Atilla said, "While creating my works, the bounty of Anatolian and Mesopotamian lands and the splendor of the goddesses gave me magical moments. With my works, I aim to introduce the history and cultural heritage of the lands where I was born and raised to the world and pass it on to future generations."
Emphasizing that SANKO Art Gallery has been bringing distinguished artists together with art lovers in Gaziantep for many years, Atilla said, "It is very valuable that the SANKO Family, which has contributed to production, employment, and exports for over 120 years, also supports artistic activities and social responsibility projects that directly affect the future of society. I would like to thank the Konukoğlu Family and the management of SANKO Art Gallery for always making us feel their support for art and artists."
Following the speeches, Dr. Gülfem Karslıgil Marakoğlu, Assistant Professor from the Painting Department of Gaziantep University Faculty of Fine Arts, Sibel Atilla, Physical Education Teacher at Istanbul Gaziantepliler Anatolian High School, Özden Yıldız, Painting Teacher at Aysel - İbrahim Akınal Anatolian High School, and Painter Gül Öztürkmen Demir presented Azmi Atilla with the publication "Zeugma: The Necklace of the Euphrates" on behalf of SANKO Holding.
The exhibition opening was attended by SANKO Park Shopping Mall General Manager Sait Can Gizir, SANKO Art Gallery Executive Board Vice Chairman Cengiz Halil Çiçek, Executive Board Member Murat Köylüoğlu, Dr. Assoc. Prof. İbrahim Yıldız from the Painting Department of Gaziantep University Faculty of Fine Arts, Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce Fine Arts High School Painting Teachers Hüseyin Yıldırım, Sakine Tiemtore, Şeref Yeter, and art lovers.
The exhibition "Art Inspired by the Depths of Anatolia: Azmi Atilla's Fascinating Paintings," featuring 38 works by Azmi Atilla, can be visited daily from 12:00 to 20:00 until December 25, 2025, at the SANKO Art Gallery on the third floor of SANKO Park Shopping Mall.
Who is Azmi Atilla?
Born in Adıyaman in 1980. He completed his primary and secondary education in his hometown. He graduated from Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Department of Painting and Art Education.
He is currently pursuing his master's degree at Mersin University, Institute of Fine Arts. Between 2002 and 2019, he held 5 exhibitions in Mersin, Anamur, and Gaziantep, and participated in 14 group exhibitions in Gaziantep, Bodrum, Diyarbakır, and Paris.
He has been working as a visual arts teacher in state schools for 23 years, is married, and has two children.
Source: https://www.platinonline.com/kultur-sanat/sanko-sanat-galerisinin-yeni-sergisi-sanatseverlerle-bulustu-1094838