We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Asli Ozok. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Asli below.

Hi Asli, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

As an art student at the academy, I began developing my own unique style. However, I faced significant skepticism; even my tutor dismissed my work, claiming it wasn’t “real art.” Undeterred, I continued to pursue my vision.
An unexpected opportunity arose when Accenture, a major American company, opened a large office in the new towers and organized an art competition. The jury consisted entirely of foreign art professionals, offering a fresh perspective on artistic merit.
Secretly, without telling anyone, I submitted my paintings to the competition. To my astonishment and delight, I was awarded first prize and a $1,000 cash award. The news was met with disbelief from those who had doubted my artistic approach.
As part of the prize, my artwork was exhibited in Accenture’s office for an entire year. The experience culminated in an awards ceremony and exhibition, marking a significant milestone in my artistic journey.
This victory was about more than just earning money; it taught me the invaluable lesson of self-confidence. It proved that believing in my unique vision, despite facing criticism and doubt, could lead to recognition and success. This experience became a turning point, validating my artistic path and encouraging me to continue pushing boundaries in my creative work.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My artistic journey began during my time as a student at the academy, and since then, I’ve been working and creating nonstop. I firmly believe that persistence, hard work, and discipline are essential qualities for any artist. This unwavering commitment has been the cornerstone of my career.
Curiosity drives me to constantly explore new skills and techniques that allow me to express my thoughts more effectively. As an artist, I’ve learned that the medium can change over time, adapting to new inspirations and evolving ideas. While every artist has their own unique path, I consider myself an open-minded yet conservative artist and individual in life.
Throughout my journey, I’ve felt a deep sense of responsibility to my collectors who have trusted and supported me from the beginning. Their faith in my work has been a constant source of motivation and inspiration.
Parallel to my artistic career, I’ve also pursued a path in academy. This dual career has enriched my artistic perspective, feeding my creative spirit while empowering me with knowledge. The combination of practical artistry and academic insight has given me a unique vantage point in the art world.
My approach to art is a blend of traditional values and contemporary exploration. I strive to honor the trust of my collectors while pushing the boundaries of my artistic expression. This balance between responsibility and innovation defines my work and continues to shape my artistic journey.
The knowledge I’ve gained through my academic career has been invaluable, making me not just a more informed artist, but also a more versatile one. It has allowed me to approach my art with a deeper understanding of context, theory, and technique.
As I continue on this path, I remain committed to growth, as an artist. My goal is to create works that resonate with collectors and audiences while also contributing to the broader dialogue in the art world.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My artistic journey is a testament to resilience, marked by significant life changes and sacrifices made in pursuit of my passion for painting and sculpting. Art has always been my top priority, guiding my major life decisions.
One of the most pivotal moments in my career was when I made the difficult decision to leave my academic position. This wasn’t an easy choice, but it was necessary to immerse myself in the vibrant art scenes of London and New York – cities that are at the heart of the global art world.
Prior to this, I had spent several years living in Spain, using it as a base to exhibit my work across various European countries. This period was crucial in establishing my presence in the European art market and expanding my artistic horizons.
My journey has also involved continuous learning and adaptation. I’ve invested time in learning new languages, recognizing their importance in connecting with diverse art communities and collectors. As an independent artist, I often find myself wearing multiple hats – not just creator, but also dealer and gallery professional. This multifaceted role requires constant travel, flexibility, and a deep understanding of the art market.
Recognizing the importance of location in the art world, I made the strategic decision to establish my main studio in central London. This choice was driven by the need to be easily accessible to collectors and to have convenient access to museums, galleries, and auction houses. The proximity to these key art world institutions has been invaluable in furthering my career and maintaining strong connections within the industry.
This journey has not been without its difficulties, but each obstacle overcome has only strengthened my resolve and enriched my artistic practice. My experiences across different countries and cultures have profoundly influenced my work, adding depth and diversity to my artistic expression.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound sense of freedom and self-expression it provides. There’s an unparalleled joy in bringing my inner visions to life through painting and sculpture, translating abstract ideas into tangible forms that can touch and inspire others.
One of the most fulfilling elements of my artistic journey has been the ability to connect with people across cultural and linguistic boundaries. Art speaks a universal language, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how my work can resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The connections I’ve forged with collectors, fellow artists, and art enthusiasts from around the world have enriched my life in ways I never anticipated when I first embarked on this path.
Another deeply satisfying aspect is the continuous growth and learning inherent in the creative process. Each new project presents unique challenges, pushing me to expand my skills, explore new techniques, and delve deeper into my artistic vision. This constant evolution keeps my work fresh and exciting, both for me and for my audience.
The freedom to shape my own path has been invaluable. As an independent artist, I’ve had the opportunity to live and work in various countries, immersing myself in different cultures and art scenes. This nomadic lifestyle, while challenging at times, has been a source of endless inspiration and has profoundly influenced my artistic perspective.
Perhaps most rewarding is the impact my art can have on others. Whether it’s a collector who finds deep personal meaning in one of my pieces, or a young aspiring artist who finds inspiration in my journey, knowing that my work can touch lives and spark emotions is incredibly fulfilling.
Lastly, the sense of legacy is deeply rewarding. Creating art that will outlive me, that will continue to speak to future generations, gives me a sense of purpose and continuity. It’s humbling and exhilarating to think that the works I create today might be appreciated and studied long after I’m gone.
In essence, being an artist allows me to leave my unique imprint on the world, to contribute to the grand tapestry of human culture and expression. This, to me, is the ultimate reward of a life dedicated to creativity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.asliozok.com
• Instagram: @asliozokstudio.com

Image Credits

No one