Gönül Sen-Menzel: Dance Scenes, Landscapes and Portraits at St. Theodor

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Vingst – The parish hall of St. Theodor was packed for the opening of an exhibition of pictures by the Turkish artist Gönül Sen.

Together with the Catholic Education Center, the parish has ventured to host such an exhibition for the first time. “The interest is greater than expected,” says parish officer Christa Sauerland, who founded a working group for art lovers with Gundula Meiners of the Education Center.

Mayor Renate Canisius was also taken with the pictures: “I think it’s great to present a Turkish painter, since many Turks live here in the neighborhood.” The mayor hopes that this exhibition will be the beginning of lasting art and cultural work in the district. That is indeed the plan: the new series is to be called “Signale aus Vingst” (Signals from Vingst). To kick it off, the artist gave an insight into her work. Gönül Sen made twelve sketches to the rhythmic steps of belly dancer Tatjana Kleinow.

These are now to complete the exhibition. A total of 19 large-format pictures currently adorn the otherwise bare walls of the parish hall – colorful depictions of dance scenes, landscapes and portraits.

The 43-year-old artist has lived in Germany since 1981 with her husband, the painter Sabahattin Sen. She had already studied at the art college in Istanbul in Turkey, studies she continued at the Düsseldorf Art Academy between 1983 and 1987. As an art teacher, she also wants to pass on her experience, knowledge and skills. On the final day of the exhibition, which runs until June 12, she is offering workshops for children and adults. (NR)

Original caption: Artist Gönül Sen and belly dancer Tatjana Kleinow (center) sent “Signals from Vingst”. Besides the organizers, Mayor Renate Canisius and district head Theo Haupt were delighted.