Volkan Aslan: Exploring Memory and Perception Through Installation Art
Volkan Aslan, born in Ankara, Turkey in 1982, is a contemporary artist whose practice delves into the intricate tapestry of memory—a realm where perception intertwines to shape our understanding of time and reality. Driven by philosophical inquiries into subjectivity and sensory experience, Aslan’s artistic endeavors consistently strive to dismantle accepted narratives, inviting audiences into contemplative dialogues centered on visceral encounters with art. His creative journey commenced with rigorous academic training at Mersin University of Fine Arts Faculty, specializing in Painting, where he cultivated foundational skills before dedicating himself to the exploration of experimental media and immersive installation art.
His formative years were steeped in Turkish cultural heritage and artistic traditions—a confluence that instilled within him a deep appreciation for both meticulous craftsmanship and conceptual daring. This early exposure nurtured an inquisitive spirit and fostered a desire to transcend conventional artistic boundaries. He pursued further studies at Mersin University of Fine Arts Faculty, Painting Department, earning a degree in 2005 – marking the beginning of his formal artistic education.
Aslan’s distinctive style emerged from his engagement with video art and installation projects—mediums uniquely suited for investigating the elusive nature of recollection and its profound influence on constructing our subjective experience. Rejecting simplistic representations, he meticulously selects materials like concrete, steel, and textiles to construct environments that stimulate contemplation and provoke reflection upon personal histories alongside broader societal considerations. Recurring motifs – geometric forms and repetitive patterns – serve as deliberate distillations of complex ideas into visual expressions simultaneously accessible intellectually and emotionally resonant.
His installations frequently incorporate sculptural elements harmoniously blended with projected imagery, generating layered sensory experiences designed to engage viewers on multiple levels. Aslan’s artistic technique prioritizes durable materials like concrete and steel—a conscious decision reflecting a fascination not only with structural integrity but also with the exploration of temporal dimensions – hinting at the passage of time and its impact on artistic creation.
Throughout his career, Volkan Aslan has garnered recognition for his innovative approach to artmaking and his commitment to challenging established perspectives. His work has been showcased in prominent galleries across Turkey and internationally, including Galerie PARIS – B in France and Apex Art Center in New York—establishing him as a significant voice within the contemporary art landscape. Notably, he participated in prestigious biennials such as the Venice Biennale and Istanbul Biennial, where his installations garnered critical acclaim for their conceptual depth and emotive power. Currently residing in Istanbul, Aslan continues to contribute actively to the vibrant Turkish artistic community, furthering artistic exploration and pushing boundaries of creative expression. His exhibitions include SALT Galata (Istanbul), Apex Art Center (New York), Galerie PARIS – B (Paris) & Pi Artworks London & Istanbul.
His art speaks to a profound awareness of how memory shapes our perception of the world—encouraging viewers to question assumptions and embrace ambiguity as an indispensable element of artistic inquiry. Volkan Aslan’s unwavering dedication to disrupting conventions ensures that his work remains pertinent in contemporary dialogues concerning identity, history, and the transformative potential inherent within creative engagement.
