Feyza Koksal Kemahlioglu: Studio Visit
Feyza Koksal Kemahlioglu
New York, NY
@feyzakoksal
“I am very inspired by my Turkish heritage and culture. Nature, architecture and Turkish arts and history have always been part of my design process”
INTERVIEW WITH FEYZA KOKSAL KEMAHLIOGLU AND LAURA DAY WEBB
NEW YORK, NY, USA
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you came to be an artist?
I grew up in Istanbul, Turkey, and have been drawing, painting and creating things for as long as I can remember. I came to the US to study Architecture at Carnegie Mellon University, and moved to New York afterwards. I did a couple internships and got my Master's in Architecture and Urban Design at Columbia University. While working on an urban renewal project, I came to the realization I missed working with my hands, and signed up for a glassblowing workshop. I loved it, and that led me to start my own studio focusing on lighting and home decor. I always wanted to do my own thing and I love pushing the line between artist, architect, and product designer.
What is your approach to starting a new work?
I like to create a story around my pieces. I am very inspired by my Turkish heritage and culture. Nature, architecture and Turkish arts and history have always been part of my design process. I design a new collection of lighting and home decor products every year, and work off of those with my clients. The designs are fully customizable in size, color and organization.
Do you listen to music when you are working and what do you listen to?
I listen to different playlists on Spotify. In the mornings, or when I am designing, I listen to classical music. But during the day, I listen to the playlists my husband has compiled from places like Buddha Bar, which take me to Bodrum and Mykonos summers. It gives me energy and positivity.
What role does your studio space play in your practice?
I've started to realize how important it is and how did I not have my own space all these years. It is great for clients to come to talk, look at samples, and design together. Creatively, it is also great because I have a space to create and be messy.
Are there any elements or objects in your studio setup that have special significance to you and your practice?
My office isn't done yet, but I am trying to make it so that it is both an efficient workplace and also a beautiful showroom. I have all the samples of my lighting, furniture and decor products. I love entertaining people, so I tried to make it comfortable for my visitors to come and chill with me, have a coffee, some chocolates and friends to come work from my office as well. I love my sample shelves because they are full of colorful glass. The whole office is so full of color and positive energy; I love being there.
What are you working on now?
I am working on a new full tableware collection to go with my glass Cut Vases. It will include glassware, table linens, trays and boxes. I am in Turkey right now, and it is textile heaven here. I love going to Grand Bazaar and little shops around the city to find unique things to work with and bring back to New York. My interest really lies in creating something contemporary with a traditional element.
How did you come about your current studio? Any interesting, funny, dramatic, inspiring stories to share?
This is my first official studio space. Before, I was working from either home, WeWork or hopping from my glass studio to the electrician's studio. I had a baby last year and it became so hard to work from home. Both my son and my work require my attention, and it felt like I cant give my all to either if I am at home. My new office is a 10-minute walk from my house, so I am so grateful I can hop in and out to see my son as I like. But, it is also so amazing to finally dress up and go somewhere, completely focus on creating and managing my business.