Elif Saydam

In the artist's words:

Elif Saydam (*1985, Calgary, Canada) is dedicated to an expanded painting practice that incorporates elements of ornamentation and decoration, humor and socio-political critique to explore systems of social hierarchies and textures of our everyday urban existence. Among the works are canvases colored with wax, patchwork works made of painted fabric, paintings on sponges, cabin doors or on security mirrors. Saydam draws on traditions such as miniature painting and illuminated manuscripts, while at the same time focusing on contemporary locations in large cities such as petrol stations, late-night shops and apartment blocks. Places where often precarious population groups clash with gentrifying forces, creating dynamic areas of resistance against the homogenization of cities.

Elif Saydam's works can be found in many international collections, including the RBC Corporate Art Collection, Canada; Yan Du Collection, London; Sammlung zeitgenössischer Kunst der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, Bonn; Neuer Berliner Kunstverein Artothek, Berlin.