June 02 : 2022
Emre Küheylan
As a curator and lecturer, Emre focuses on photography. We are thrilled to welcome him as a judge for the reFocus Photo Awards.
by Lily Fierman
2:00 minutes read
Q:
How did you get into the art world?
A:
I started my career as a photographer during my university years. After many exhibitions and publications around the world, I found myself in the management and curation side of the art world. I discovered that I also like telling stories through the work of other artists. Looking at events and issues from a wider perspective gives me happiness. Finally, I think that I have completed this chain by transferring my knowledge and experiences at the university to my students.
Q:
What is your favorite part of your job?
A:
I think my favorite part of my job is its dynamism and what I see continues to amaze me over the years. Interesting stories, different perspectives… All of these keep enriching me.
Q:
Who are three of your favorite photographers (working today or otherwise)?
A:
It's really hard for me to choose, but maybe I can say these three names. The first one is Sebastiao Salgado for his unique perspective and dreamlike photographs. The second is the great master Ara Güler, who shows us the recent past and people of the country I live in the most sincere way. The last name is Henri-Cartier Bresson, who introduced the concept of the decisive moment into our lives.
Q:
What do you look for when working with a new artist?
A:
I can say that unique style of expression comes first. We come across many similar and repetitive works in the art market. Although such works are technically and aesthetically successful, they may not arouse enough excitement for the viewers. If there is an original and unique style in the works, they can attract my attention in seconds.
Q:
What are you looking forward to gaining from the experience of being a judge at reFocus?
A:
Seeing new works and discovering new photographers always excites me. I have no doubt that I will discover many talented photographers and their works within the scope of reFocus. I see this experience as part of my professional development.
Q:
If you had any advice to give to photographers or artists out there, what would it be?
A:
It is very important to have unique stories and a unique style. Sometimes I come across photographers who get too attached to the equipment part of the business and therefore they get away from the main issue. Today with many cameras or mobile phones on the market, technically very good frames can be captured. Do not forget that it is very important to develop a unique perspective on what is going on in front of you. Don’t miss the content and the story.
Q:
Why did you want to participate as a judge at reFocus?
A:
I was very happy and honored when I received an invitation from you. I thought it was a well-prepared organization.
Q:
What part of the process of judging are you most looking forward to?
A:
During the process, there are works that I can't forget and that are inevitably engraved in my mind. It is a pleasing experience for me to see these works receive awards and to see these photographers have achieved great success in their career after many years.
Q:
If you could own the work of one artist, photographer or otherwise and regardless if it is in a museum or collection, what work or artist would it be?
A:
I think a work by Edward Hopper would make me very happy. An important master of American realism. I always feel that there is a different relationship between me and his works. Being able to put yourself in those people's shoes, thinking that you exist in those places… These are not easy things to achieve for an artist.
JUDGE
