Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ayca Kilicoglu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ayca thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

As long as I can remember, I have always loved drawing and creating things. After completing my master’s degree in graphic design I had the opportunity to explore freelance graphic design work with multiple design firms. While I valued my time there, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing, once again. It was then that I realized I needed to concentrate on bringing my own vision to life. ‘Mur by Ayca’ emerged from this realization.

Ayca, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I knew I wanted to study art, but getting into an art school in Turkey proved to be a significant challenge solely based on one’s ability. Due to the difficulty of gaining admission to an art school, I began to doubt my own capabilities and ceased creating for a handful of years. I had incredibly talented friends who faced the same predicament, and we ultimately chose different career paths. I pursued public administration and worked in the field of economics, which was devoid of any creative expression. During that period, my passion for art gradually resurfaced, and I sensed that my career in finance was rapidly drawing to a close. Consequently, I resigned from my job in Turkey and relocated to the California. Upon arrival, I enrolled in ESL classes in preparation for attending art school. Initially, I focused on graphic design and attended illustration courses at UC Berkeley Extension before advancing to the Academy of Art University to pursue a master’s degree. Throughout this time, I dedicated myself to independent practice in illustration.

Following my graduation, I had the opportunity to explore and work as a freelance graphic designer at several design firms. While I deeply valued my experiences there, I sensed a void within me. I came to the realization that I needed to concentrate on bringing my own creative vision to life. It was from this realization that Mur by Ayca was born.

Colors and patterns have always held great significance for me. Even from a young age, I was discerning about my clothing choices. I vividly recall a Turkish brand, Sumerbank, renowned for its textile patterns, which I still adore despite its discontinuation. I engage in art using various mediums and techniques. For my scarves, I predominantly employ a combination of hand-drawing and digital finishing. My inspiration derives from the everyday objects in my life, which I distill into abstract shapes and patterns. I possess a deep affection for nature and a fascination with animals. When I depict them, I infuse a bit of myself through intricate details, imbuing authenticity even in entirely modern compositions.

I have an affinity for vibrant, energizing colors, yet I also take pleasure in the subtle tones of pastels. I strive to maintain diversity in my artistic styles. The same sentiment applies to the brand I have established. I aspire to be recognized not merely as a fashion brand, but primarily as an art brand. I relish the fusion of fashion and art, as it is through the amalgamation of different elements, cultures, and people that we gain wisdom. This overarching philosophy extends to my approach to life. I derive immense satisfaction from creating works that bring smiles, happiness, and joy into people’s lives—a pursuit I find particularly important in today’s world.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Certainly! When I quit my job and decided to move to California, despite the fact that this idea was not fully supported, the only person who wholeheartedly backed my decision was my then-boyfriend, now husband, Emrah, who was already living in San Francisco. I know my family had the notion that after graduating from university and starting work at a prestigious company, my life should follow a stable and safe path. The next expectation was probably getting married and having kids, and so on. I understand that I’m not implying this is a terrible thing, but it’s crucial to know what you want in your life. If you don’t set your own rules, others will do it for you. It wasn’t easy to say, “I am leaving everything behind.” I might not succeed in the path I’ve chosen, but I knew I wouldn’t have regrets. If I didn’t do this, I would have regretted it. So, always trust yourself first. Seek out others’ opinions, respect them, but if you believe you’re doing the right thing, just move forward!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Changing my career to pursue what I truly want and starting from scratch, including returning to school, was a significant decision for me.

In my business journey, when I initially launched my business, I applied to participate in major craft shows. Especially, West Coast Craft response held immense importance to me because it marked the initial step, and their acceptance would signify that I was on the right path. Additionally, the reactions of people at these shows when they encountered my work were a source of indescribable happiness. Collaborations with esteemed brands such as Nooworks, Who Gives A Crap, Equator Coffees, Boothcraft, Hedley & Bennett, and SF MOMA followed. Notably, the collaboration with Nooworks was a resounding success. In their history, my design became the best-selling item to date. This feeling is truly remarkable.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.murbyayca.com
• Instagram: murbyayca
• Facebook: murbyayca
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/?trk=homepage-basic_sign-in-submit

Image Credits
Chloe Jackman Photography