Gönül Sen-Menzel: Picture Series – Ideas in Rows

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Dortmund. Gönül Sen is extremely productive. When she engages with art, she produces whole series at once. Part of it can currently be seen at Galerie Gerda Türke at Johannesstraße 8a.

At the center of her new works are human beings, people. Gender is not so important; it is about more essential things and the diversity of existence. No person that Gönül Sen has painted resembles another. The impression Gönül Sen creates blurs and evaporates, like a brushstroke. Individuality is suspended; in the series a social context emerges.

The artist is no stranger to Galerie Gerda Türke. As is customary, she has brought new works for each new exhibition. The Turkish-born artist seems to be constantly occupied with art. A diary on old wallpaper is on display. Just one, mind you. It is a colorful diary with plenty of verve and color on its pages. What at first appears to be painted at random and without aim makes sense – but only once the viewer has become accustomed to the artist’s way of expressing herself. Because appearances are deceptive: what first looks abstract is by no means abstract. The red round shape is a sun, the brown is landscape. You have to take your time with this show, which captivates above all through its great expressive power. Coarse and fine – the artist uses the effect of contrasts very deliberately.

Gönül Sen obtained her diploma in art in 1972 at the Teachers’ College in Istanbul, where she was also born. She then worked as an art teacher in Turkey for nine years. She has lived in Germany since 1981, and from 1983 to 1989 she studied at the Düsseldorf Art Academy, where she was a master student of Prof. Beate Schiff. From the very beginning, Gönül Sen has had numerous exhibitions in Germany and abroad or taken part in group shows.

As is known about the artist, her series arise from a momentary state of mind; inspired by her surroundings, she translates her feelings and impressions while listening to classical music. Her use of color is not limited to primary and complementary colors but also includes mixed and glitter colors. Gönül Sen also uses acrylic paints, nail polish, carnival paint or tar residues.

The exhibition can be seen until April 18. Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 3 to 7 p.m. (and by appointment).

Original caption: Ideas in rows: for the Turkish artist Gönül Sen, the human being – people – are the focus.