Description
Winter Cherry by Mary Elizabeth Tasgetiren
oil painting
20 x 20 inches
Artist Statement: This painting is part of a series I have been working on exploring the soul of creation and the deep interaction between the human soul and other forms of life.
I created this piece over the winter, contemplating on the boundless miracle of existence. Rich in symbolism, this painting shows a vibrant red cherry cradling the image of a fetus within its seed—representing the miracle of life embedded in nature’s design. The surrounding cool blues draw a contrast between warmth and stillness, growth and dormancy, reminding us that even in the depths of winter, the gift of life remains as fresh and sweet as a ripe cherry.
Through this work, I invite the viewer to contemplate the awe inspiring similarity in the harmony with which the human and natural world exists - the vitality of the womb and source of life.
Bio: I was born in Dearborn, Michigan, in June 1984 and spent much of my childhood in Cyprus and İstanbul, Turkey. My artistic journey began in high school when I started taking professional studio drawing classes. In 2009, I graduated from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Linguistics and Speech and Hearing Disorders.
In 2011, I moved back to İstanbul, where I deepened my engagement with the arts. In 2014, I began training in classical oil painting with a very skilled artist, Amine Sultan Tan, and continued my studies with her for several years. During the pandemic, I explored fiber arts, creating intricate crocheted pieces, including blankets, vests, cardigans, and handbags. In 2022, I shifted my focus back to painting, studying abstract oil painting under award-winning artist İlhami Atalay. I worked with him until July 2024, participating in numerous exhibitions he curated across İstanbul.
Drawing from a diverse range of artistic experiences, my work often blends multiple techniques in oil painting. Aside from this, I also make collages on canvas using scrap textiles, leather, and custom handmade pieces to create tactile compositions.
In August 2024, I moved to West Windsor, New Jersey, with my husband, two children, and two cats. I am excited to continue my artistic practice here, exploring new creative opportunities and contributing to the local arts community.
$500
Price subject to sales tax
