Today we’d like to introduce you to Varol Ozkaner

Hi Varol, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

My journey into digital art began in the late 1990s. I was always fascinated by various forms of visual arts, specifically photography and videography, and by technology as separate entities. But the idea of merging technology and art was incredibly exciting. Back then, the digital art scene was just starting to gain traction, and I felt a strong urge to be a part of it. I started with basic image manipulation tools and techniques offered by different sources and software like Adobe Photoshop. It was a steep learning curve, but my passion for both art and technology kept me motivated. Around the mid-2010s, I gradually started to gain recognition in the digital art community. I participated in art exhibitions, both online and offline, and my work began to be featured in digital art magazines and blogs. Today, I am fortunate to work on a variety of projects, which have allowed me to collaborate with major brands and independent creators alike over the years.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

Well, as far as challenges go, I have to admit that my career in visual arts has been anything but a smooth road. Like many artists, I’ve faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been keeping up with the rapid advancements in technology. New tools, software, and techniques are constantly emerging, and staying current requires continuous learning and adaptation. It can be overwhelming to keep pace with these changes while also maintaining a consistent output of high-quality work. For instance, the digital art landscape has changed drastically compared to how it was two decades ago, with advancements in AI and virtual reality pushing the boundaries of what we can create. As a visual artist and a good learner, I consider those kinds of changes and advancements as an opportunity to broaden the boundaries of my skills and abilities in my professional journey.
Also, finding a balance between commercial work and personal projects has been another significant challenge. While commercial projects provide financial stability, they often come with strict guidelines and limitations that can stifle creativity. On the other hand, personal projects allow for complete creative freedom but are not always aligned with the needs of the market.
Despite these challenges, it has been my passion for digital art and the joy of creating that have kept me going. Each struggle has taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow both as an artist and a professional. Overall, the road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been incredibly rewarding.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

My work spans a wide range of forms in digital visual arts. Over the past two decades, I have delved into various aspects of digital art, from photography, videography, illustrations to complex 3D modeling and interface design for web and mobile products. I am known for my versatility and ability to adapt to different styles and mediums. Whether it’s a whimsical character design, a photorealistic 3D model or an illustration, I strive to infuse creativity and originality into every project. My use of vibrant colors and intricate details has become a signature aspect of my work. Along with the photo-manipulation and videography works I have produced, my digital illustrations and graphic design works have been featured in books, magazines, and online platforms. Speaking of design, I have a strong background in interface design, creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces that enhance user experience across various digital platforms, like web and mobile applications. In general, my design work is known for its clean aesthetics and attention to detail. My meticulous attention to detail ensures that every piece of work, whether commercial or personal, meets high standards of quality, which has earned me a reputation for reliability and excellence. What sets me apart from the majority is, I think, my ability to work across various mediums and styles allowing me to take on a wide range of projects. This diversity not only keeps my work dynamic but also ensures I can meet the unique needs of each individual project.

What were you like growing up?

I was born and raised in Istanbul, Turkey. Growing up in Istanbul, a city steeped in history and culture, profoundly influenced my personality and interests. The city’s unique blend of ancient and contemporary cultures, played a crucial and pivotal role in shaping who I am today as a digital design artist. I was a curious and imaginative child, always eager to explore the vibrant streets and historic landmarks of Istanbul. My personality was a mix of introspection and creativity. I enjoyed observing the world around me and often found inspiration in the city’s rich tapestry of cultures, architecture, and stories which helped me gain a vivid imagination that, I assume, has significantly influenced my work as a digital design artist. Alongside my curiosity for everything around me, I loved stories in all forms, like books, movies, comics, and video games. This passion for storytelling fueled my interest in creating characters and worlds of my own. I would write short stories and draw accompanying illustrations, creating a rich tapestry of imaginative narratives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://varolozkaner.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/varolonline
• Other: https://www.varolozkanerdesigns.com/portfolio