Julia Dogan: Art has always been my way of communicating 4j6n2l

What inspired you to create art and become an artist?

Art has always been my way of communicating with the world—when words fall short, my paintings speak. I’ve experienced so much in life that demanded expression: moments of joy, pain, freedom, and longing. Every shift, every challenge, every moment of growth has added layers to my artistic voice.

Creating art allows me to connect deeply with people, helping them shift their perspectives, just as I have. I don’t want to simply create beautiful objects—I want to inspire others to embrace freedom in their own lives, to see life’s challenges not as barriers but as opportunities to grow. This desire has driven me to develop Conceptual Pop Realism, a style that combines realistic imagery with philosophical depth and uplifting emotions.

Everything I paint carries a message: freedom is a choice, and it can lead to happiness. I believe in using vibrant, positive energy to engage viewers and invite them to reflect on life's complexities without feeling overwhelmed by them. It’s about transformation, and that’s what my art is—an ongoing journey of self-liberation and discovery.

So, for me, becoming an artist wasn’t just a career; it was inevitable. It’s who I am at the core. Every canvas I touch is an invitation for people to reflect, feel empowered, and, ultimately, become freer versions of themselves.

 What is your artistic background, the techniques and subjects you have experimented with so far?

My artistic journey has been a dynamic exploration of both technique and meaning. I started with classical drawing, which gave me a strong foundation in form and composition. Over time, I immersed myself in oil painting, captivated by its richness and ability to convey complex emotions. I experimented with different genres—portraiture, still life, and abstract concepts—until I found my unique voice within realism. But I never wanted to just replicate reality; I wanted to use it as a bridge to something deeper.

In the beginning, my subjects were primarily drawn from everyday life—people, objects, and moments that carried an emotional resonance. As I evolved, my focus shifted toward philosophical ideas. I started incorporating symbolism, creating compositions where every detail holds meaning, pushing viewers to think beyond the surface. This is how Conceptual Pop Realism was born—a fusion of bright, accessible imagery with layers of meaning that unfold gradually for those willing to look closer.

Technically, I love playing with contrasts—both in color and content. I often use vibrant palettes to counterbalance heavier themes, inviting viewers into serious conversations in a lighthearted way. I also experiment with textures, blending smooth realism with expressive, rougher strokes to create visual tension and energy. Every piece is a journey, not only for the viewer but also for me, as I constantly explore how to push the boundaries between realism and concept.

Ultimately, my work is about freedom—freedom of expression, of thought, and of being. Through these experiments in subjects and techniques, I’ve discovered that my art isn’t just about what I paint but how it makes people feel: empowered, inspired, and connected to something greater than themselves.

What are the 3 aspects that differentiate you from other artists, making  your work unique?

1.  The Creation of Conceptual Pop Realism
   I developed Conceptual Pop Realism as a way to bridge realism with philosophy and emotion, offering an alternative to the heavy themes often found in conceptual art. While traditional conceptual realism can feel dark and weighty, my approach invites viewers to engage with profound ideas through a positive, vibrant lens. I use bright colors and accessible imagery to spark reflection, encouraging viewers to explore philosophical questions in a way that uplifts and empowers them. This fusion of meaning and mood—deep thoughts without the heaviness—makes my style distinct.

       

2. Freedom as a Core Theme
   The pursuit of freedom is not just a theme—it’s the soul of my work. Every piece I create is a testament to the belief that freedom brings happiness and growth. Unlike many artists who focus solely on aesthetics or narrative, I use my paintings as a medium to inspire personal liberation in others. My art isn’t just about telling a story; it’s about inviting people to reflect on their own lives,     question limitations, and explore new possibilities. Each painting is a call to action: live authentically, embrace change, and seek inner freedom.

       

3. Emotional Connection Through Realism and Symbolism
   What sets my work apart is how I combine technical mastery with deep emotional resonance. My paintings aren’t just realistic depictions—they are symbolic journeys. Every object, color, and element within the composition serves a purpose, carrying multiple layers of meaning. I believe that art should not only be visually engaging but also evoke strong emotions and provoke thought. This blend of realism and subtle symbolism ensures that my work resonates on both an intellectual and emotional level, creating a lasting impact on those who engage with it.

Together, these elements make my art more than just visual pieces—they are transformative experiences that aim to spark self-awareness and inner freedom in every viewer.

 Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from a deep connection with life itself—its complexity, contradictions, and beauty. I find it in both the grand and the ordinary moments: the feeling of sunlight on my skin, the rhythm of waves while surfing, or the way emotions unfold in seemingly mundane situations. Every experience, whether joyful or challenging, carries a message, and I channel that into my art.

Nature plays a significant role in my creative process. The ocean, in particular, has been a constant source of inspiration—surfing teaches me about freedom, flow, and resilience, lessons that I carry into my work. The dynamic interplay between chaos and harmony in the natural world mirrors the themes I explore in my paintings.

I’m also deeply inspired by human emotions and the stories we carry within us. Observing people—their interactions, vulnerabilities, and triumphs—sparks ideas for compositions. I strive to capture not just a moment in time but the emotions and thoughts beneath the surface, using my art to reflect what words often fail to express.

Lastly, freedom is the cornerstone of my inspiration. I see it as the ultimate goal, and I’m constantly exploring what it means to live freely—mentally, emotionally, and creatively. This exploration fuels every brushstroke. My inspiration is not limited to specific events or objects; it’s a continuous search for meaning and connection, with each painting becoming a piece of that journey.

What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations, or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?

My artistic approach is rooted in the belief that art can transform people by awakening them to their own potential. Every painting I create is a deliberate fusion of technique, meaning, and emotion. I aim to go beyond mere aesthetics—my goal is to connect with viewers on a deeper level, inspiring them to reflect on life’s complexities through a lens of freedom and positivity. I want them to leave my paintings not just as spectators but as participants in their own emotional journey.

Visually, I blend realistic depictions with symbolic elements to offer layers of meaning that unfold gradually. I want viewers to first be drawn in by the beauty and vibrant energy of the piece, only to discover deeper philosophical questions beneath the surface. This interplay between simplicity and depth reflects my desire for viewers to pause, reflect, and engage—not just with the art, but with their own thoughts and emotions.

The primary feeling I want to evoke is freedom—mental, emotional, and creative. I believe that through art, people can confront their limitations, challenge their beliefs, and discover new ways of thinking. My paintings are meant to uplift, inspire, and ignite a sense of possibility. I want people to leave with a lightness in their heart, a sense that they are capable of more than they imagined, and an urge to pursue their own version of happiness.

At the same time, I embrace contrasts in my work—balancing light and shadow, joy and melancholy, softness and strength. This tension reflects the reality of life, where freedom often comes from confronting difficult truths. Through these contrasts, I want viewers to feel a sense of emotional release, as if they’ve encountered a moment of clarity or peace within the chaos.

Ultimately, my approach is about connection: between the viewer and the art, between thought and feeling, and between each person and their inner self. Every painting is an invitation to experience life more deeply, more freely, and with more joy.

What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparatory process?

The process of creating my works is a blend of spontaneity and meticulous preparation. It usually begins with an idea or a feeling—a spark of inspiration that might come from a personal experience, an emotion, or even a scene from everyday life. However, I never rush straight to the canvas. I take time to let the idea mature, to reflect on how I want to translate it into a visual experience.

The preparation involves both conceptual and technical elements. I sketch out initial ideas, sometimes experimenting with compositions to ensure that the visual flow aligns with the underlying message. This stage also involves research—whether it's revisiting art classics for inspiration or exploring philosophical concepts that I want to convey. I love immersing myself in works of masters like Vermeer or Hopper, not to imitate them, but to understand how they captured light, emotion, and narrative.

Once I have a clear vision, the real work begins. I often prepare multiple layers on the canvas, building textures to create depth. The painting process itself is where spontaneity takes over. Even though I come to the canvas with a plan, I leave room for the unexpected. Sometimes, the most meaningful details emerge organically during the act of painting—a sudden brushstroke, a shift in color, or a new element that changes the direction of the piece.

I also see my works as dialogues between intuition and intention. I know where I want to go, but I let the painting guide me along the way. This balance between control and freedom mirrors the themes I explore in my art—life is both unpredictable and full of intention, and it’s in that interplay where beauty often emerges.

Each painting can take weeks or even months to complete, especially if I want to build complex layers of symbolism. It’s not just about achieving technical perfection; it’s about feeling that the work is emotionally complete—that it carries the energy I set out to capture. When I step back and sense that the painting has a life of its own, that’s when I know it’s done.

Do you use a particular work technique? If so, can you explain it?

Yes, I primarily use the technique of smooth painting (gladkoe pis’mo), which is rooted in the traditions of the old masters. This method involves applying multiple thin layers of translucent glaze, known as lazur, to build depth, luminosity, and subtle gradations of tone without any visible or raised texture on the canvas. Each layer is carefully applied and dried before the next one is added, resulting in a surface that is perfectly smooth to the touch, with no brushstrokes protruding from the canvas.

In addition to this traditional approach, I’ve developed my own technique of colored priming. Instead of starting with a neutral or white gesso base, I apply vibrant colored grounds, which act as the foundation for the painting. This technique allows the pigments to interact with the underlying colors in a unique way, creating a glowing effect. The colors stay vivid and intense, enhancing the painting’s energy, and—most importantly—they remain bright and fresh forever, resisting the dulling effect that often comes with time. This innovation ensures that my works retain their original emotional impact throughout the years.

The combination of smooth painting and colored priming gives my work a unique visual depth and luminosity. The translucent layers build on the vibrant base, allowing the light to travel through the paint and reflect back, making the colors appear rich and alive. It’s a time-intensive process that requires precision and patience, but it allows me to achieve a seamless harmony between technical mastery and emotional resonance.

This meticulous approach reflects my philosophy that art should feel effortless and harmonious, even when it carries deep, complex themes. The smooth, flawless surface invites viewers to engage deeply with the meaning beneath the image, without distractions. Through these techniques, I create works that not only capture emotions but also preserve their vibrant spirit for generations to come.

Are there any innovative aspects in your work? Can you tell us which ones?

The most important innovation in my work is the creation of Conceptual Pop Realism. This style, which I founded in 2019, represents a new direction in contemporary art by combining realistic imagery with deep philosophical meaning and positive emotional energy. Unlike traditional conceptual art, which often emphasizes heavy, melancholic, or abstract themes, my approach invites the viewer into meaningful reflection through vibrant, uplifting imagery. This balance between profound thought and accessible aesthetics makes Conceptual Pop Realism unique—and necessary—in today’s world.

In a time when art can feel disconnected from positive emotional experiences, I believe Conceptual Pop Realism fills an important gap. My goal is to inspire viewers not only to think but to feel empowered and free. Each painting addresses a philosophical issue—like personal freedom, growth, or emotional release—but does so in a way that encourages optimism and action. The emotional tone of the work is as important as its conceptual depth; I want my art to spark joy, inspire reflection, and provide strength. This approach shifts attention from struggle to possibility, showing viewers that deep thinking doesn’t have to feel heavy—it can be transformative and uplifting.

In addition to the emotional impact, the visual aspect of Conceptual Pop Realism is carefully crafted to engage the viewer. I use bright colors, clean forms, and carefully chosen symbols to make complex ideas more accessible. The combination of realism with a "pop" aesthetic draws people in, creating a moment of connection before they uncover the deeper meaning beneath the surface. This duality—where visual lightness meets intellectual depth—is what gives my work its power.

Conceptual Pop Realism isn’t just a style; it’s a philosophy. It reflects how I see the world: every challenge carries an opportunity, every limitation can be redefined, and every individual has the potential to live freely and authentically. Through this innovative approach, I aim to not only create beautiful works of art but to help people transform the way they think and feel. It’s about making art that resonates, inspires action, and ultimately, makes life richer and more meaningful.

Do you have a format or medium that you are most comfortable with? If     yes, why?

Yes, I feel most at home with oil on canvas. There’s something timeless and deeply satisfying about working with oil paint—it gives me the control I need to create smooth, refined surfaces while also offering endless possibilities for experimentation. Oil allows me to build subtle layers through glazes, giving depth and luminosity to my work, which aligns perfectly with the principles of Conceptual Pop Realism.

Canvas is my preferred medium because of its flexibility and durability. It s the multiple thin layers of glazes I apply without losing integrity over time. This is essential for achieving the smooth, seamless surface I strive for—where no brushstroke protrudes, and the viewer’s focus remains on the emotion and meaning within the piece. The combination of smooth painting techniques with colored priming also works beautifully on canvas, ensuring that the vibrant energy of my works stays radiant and alive for years to come.

The tactile experience of working with oil is equally important to me. The richness and responsiveness of the paint allow for both precision and spontaneity. It gives me the freedom to follow my intuition, making changes and adjustments along the way, while still maintaining control over the final result. This mirrors my artistic philosophy: a balance between structure and freedom, where every element contributes to a harmonious whole.

Ultimately, oil on canvas offers everything I need to convey the depth, meaning, and vibrancy that define my art. It’s the perfect medium for expressing the emotional and philosophical dimensions of Conceptual Pop Realism—where bright visuals meet deep ideas, and every painting becomes an invitation to reflect, feel, and grow.

Where do you produce your works? At home, in a shared workshop, or in your own workshop? And in this space, how do you organize your creative work?

I create my works in my own private studio, which is a dedicated room in the house where I live. This space is my sanctuary, designed specifically to foster creativity and focus. It has large windows that flood the room with natural light, creating the perfect conditions for painting. The daylight that streams in allows me to see the true colors of my work as they will appear in different environments, which is crucial for the vibrancy and luminosity I aim to achieve through Conceptual Pop Realism.

The studio is organized to both the technical and emotional aspects of my process. I keep my tools and materials meticulously arranged—my brushes, oil paints, and glazes are always within reach, so I can seamlessly move between ideas without interrupting the flow. The smooth painting technique I use requires precision and focus, so having a clean, well-organized workspace is essential.

I also have areas in the studio dedicated to different stages of creation. There’s a space for sketching and planning, where I explore compositions and symbolism, and another area for the actual painting process. I often have multiple works in progress at the same time, which allows me to step away from one piece and return to it with fresh eyes.

Beyond the practical setup, the studio is where I find mental clarity. It’s filled with natural light, peaceful energy, and the freedom to create without distraction. This environment helps me connect deeply with the themes I explore—freedom, growth, and emotional release—and ensures that each painting carries the vibrant energy I intend. My studio isn’t just a workspace; it’s where my ideas come to life, where I feel most at home, and where I invite inspiration to flow.

Does your work lead you to travel to meet new collectors, for fairs or exhibitions? If so, what does it bring you?

Yes, I frequently travel for exhibitions, fairs, and art events, and these journeys are an essential part of my career. They bring me commercial success, increased recognition, and visibility within the art world. Each exhibition opens new doors, connecting me with collectors, artists, and gallerists from all over the world. These interactions are invaluable—not just for the immediate opportunities they provide, but for the long-term relationships and collaborations that often emerge.

Traveling for exhibitions also allows me to experience new environments, cultures, and perspectives, all of which inspire and influence my creative process. Every event is a unique opportunity to present my work to new audiences, communicate my philosophy behind Conceptual Pop Realism, and engage in conversations that challenge and expand my ideas.

Additionally, these events offer moments to connect with other artists and gallerists, which I find both enriching and motivating. Exchanging ideas and learning from others helps me grow, while seeing how different communities respond to my work strengthens my artistic vision.

In many ways, these travels are about more than just business or career success—they are a source of inspiration and personal development. They affirm the importance of freedom, connection, and authenticity, which are at the heart of my art. Meeting people who resonate with my work reinforces my belief that art has the power to inspire change, not just within individuals but across cultures and communities.

How do you imagine the evolution of your work and your career as an artist in the future?

I envision my work evolving toward deeper conceptual exploration while continuing to inspire positive emotions and personal growth. Conceptual Pop Realism will remain the core of my artistic journey, but I plan to push its boundaries—experimenting with larger-scale projects, multi-layered narratives, and even incorporating new media like installations or digital elements. My goal is to create immersive experiences that engage viewers visually, emotionally, and intellectually, encouraging them to reflect, dream, and take action.

A key part of my future vision is to attract more artists to paint in the style of Conceptual Pop Realism. I want to inspire and guide other creatives toward this approach, helping them embed philosophical meaning into their work while keeping it uplifting and accessible. My ambition is for Conceptual Pop Realism to grow into a movement, uniting artists who believe that art can both challenge and inspire, offering profound meaning while uplifting the soul.

I also dream of creating a museum dedicated to Conceptual Pop Realism, a space where this art style can flourish and evolve over time. This museum will serve not only as a home for my works but also as a platform for other artists working within this philosophy. It will be a place for exhibitions, dialogue, and exchange, inviting audiences to engage with art that offers freedom and emotional resonance.

In the future, I see my career expanding globally. I want to reach diverse audiences through international exhibitions and build lasting relationships with collectors, galleries, and institutions. Beyond commercial success, I aim to leave a legacy that solidifies Conceptual Pop Realism as an influential style in contemporary art.

Additionally, I plan to continue publishing books, including the one I’m currently working on, to help artists find their unique voice and create meaningful, impactful art. Sharing my experiences and insights will enable me to connect with other creatives and guide them toward fulfilling, marketable artistic careers.

Ultimately, my evolution as an artist will reflect my personal growth. I’ll continue exploring what it means to live freely and authentically, always seeking new ways to communicate these ideas through art. My dream is not just to leave behind beautiful works but to create an enduring movement—one that empowers both artists and viewers to embrace freedom, joy, and meaning in their lives.

Pouvez-vous nous parler de votre expérience d’exposition la plus importante ?

Exposer mon travail est une étape essentielle de mon parcours artistique. Chaque exposition apporte de nouvelles opportunités—elle me permet de faire découvrir mon art à un nouveau public, d’augmenter ma visibilité et de faire avancer ma carrière. L’une des expériences les plus marquantes que j’ai vécues a été une exposition à New York. Environ six mois après cette exposition, un galeriste de renom m’a é avec une proposition de collaboration. Ce fut un tournant dans ma carrière, et depuis, nous travaillons ensemble. Cette collaboration a ouvert de nombreuses portes, élargissant ma portée et permettant à mon travail d’évoluer de manière nouvelle et enrichissante.

Chaque exposition a une valeur pour moi, peu importe où elle se déroule. Chaque événement apporte un regard neuf et me permet d’établir des liens avec de nouveaux publics, des collectionneurs et des professionnels du monde de l’art. Il ne s’agit pas seulement de montrer mon travail, mais aussi d’engager un dialogue, de partager ma philosophie du Réalisme Pop Conceptuel et de créer des relations durables. Les expositions sont un élément essentiel de mon processus artistique—elles favorisent la reconnaissance, inspirent de nouvelles directions et font progresser continuellement ma carrière.

Si vous pouviez avoir créé une œuvre célèbre de l’histoire de l’art, laquelle choisiriez-vous ? Et pourquoi ?

Si j'avais pu créer une œuvre célèbre de l’histoire de l’art, je choisirais La Trahison des images de René Magritte. Ce tableau, avec sa représentation d’une pipe accompagnée de l’inscription « Ceci n’est pas une pipe », remet en question la perception du spectateur et l’invite à réfléchir à la relation entre l’image et la réalité. Il suggère que la représentation d’un objet n’est pas l’objet lui-même, ce qui nous pousse à envisager l’idée que la réalité peut être illusoire. Ce concept encourage chacun à regarder au-delà des apparences et à considérer différentes perspectives—un thème qui résonne profondément avec ma propre philosophie artistique.

L’œuvre de Magritte s’aligne parfaitement avec les objectifs du Réalisme Pop Conceptuel. Tout comme son tableau nous pousse à remettre en question nos certitudes, mon art cherche à inspirer une réflexion sur la vie, les émotions et la liberté à travers des images vibrantes et des messages philosophiques profonds. La capacité de Magritte à transformer un élément familier en une réflexion philosophique puissante m’inspire dans mon propre parcours. Je cherche à créer des œuvres qui ne sont pas seulement visuellement captivantes, mais aussi intellectuellement stimulantes—des œuvres qui invitent les spectateurs à penser différemment, à voir au-delà des apparences et à explorer de nouvelles façons de comprendre le monde et eux-mêmes.

Comme Magritte, je pense que l’art ne se limite pas à ce que nous voyons, mais à la manière dont nous le percevons. Cette idée est au cœur de mon travail : prendre des objets ou des situations apparemment simples et leur donner une signification qui se dévoile progressivement. Nos approches respectives incitent les spectateurs à s’engager profondément, démontrant que l’art peut provoquer la réflexion, inspirer le changement et transformer notre perception de la réalité.

Si vous pouviez inviter un artiste célèbre (vivant ou décédé) à dîner, qui serait-ce ? Comment suggéreriez-vous de er la soirée ?

Si je pouvais inviter trois artistes à dîner, ce serait René Magritte, Banksy et Andy Warhol. Chacun d’eux a profondément influencé la perception de l’art et a façonné différents aspects de ma propre philosophie créative. Au-delà de leur génie artistique, ce sont des personnalités fascinantes et marquantes, ce qui rend leur art si puissant. Leur capacité à briser les conventions et à exprimer des idées profondes à travers leurs œuvres en fait le trio parfait pour une soirée de discussions inspirantes et d’exploration créative.

Avec René Magritte, j’explorerais ses idées sur la réalité, la perception et l’illusion. Son art nous apprend que ce que nous voyons ne correspond pas toujours à ce qu’il semble être, incitant les spectateurs à interroger le monde qui les entoure—une idée qui résonne fortement avec mon approche du Réalisme Pop Conceptuel. Notre conversation nourrirait de nouvelles pistes pour explorer cet équilibre entre surface et profondeur dans l’art.

De Banksy, je voudrais entendre ses réflexions sur l’intersection entre l’art et l’activisme, ainsi que sur la manière dont il est parvenu à rester anonyme tout en réalisant certaines des œuvres les plus percutantes de notre époque. Son aptitude à provoquer la réflexion de manière à la fois ludique et sérieuse reflète ma propre conviction que l’art peut inspirer la liberté et la transformation personnelle. J’aimerais échanger avec lui sur la façon dont l’art peut défier les normes sociales tout en restant accessible et engageant.

Avec Andy Warhol, la discussion porterait sur la célébrité, le consumérisme et le marché de l’art. Son approche visionnaire de la production de masse et de la culture populaire a redéfini la place de l’art dans la société. Je lui demanderais comment il percevrait le monde de l’art contemporain et la culture numérique actuelle. Ce serait fascinant d’échanger avec lui sur la manière dont les principes du Réalisme Pop Conceptuel s’intègrent dans le paysage artistique actuel.

La soirée se déroulerait dans une ambiance spontanée et détendue, alternant entre discussions profondes et éclats de créativité. Après le dîner, nous pourrions esquisser des idées ou imaginer ensemble de futurs projets artistiques, simplement pour le plaisir de partager nos visions.

Ce serait une soirée inoubliable—une rencontre où le surréalisme, l’art urbain et la pop culture se croiseraient, donnant naissance à de nouvelles idées. Ces trois artistes ne sont pas seulement des figures légendaires, mais aussi des esprits libres et audacieux, dont la force de caractère transparaît dans leur art.