By Sean Maldjian, Contributor

Meet Gizem Vural

Come with me as we rock on over to the abstract, soothing, and thought-provoking work of Gizem Vural. I was first introduced to this artist when I came across a collection of their comics. The artist’s playful deconstruction of the medium is absolutely delightful. In our latest article, we chat with the artist about inspiration, memory, and family.

A self-portrait by Gizem Vural

Would You Rather

Have a perfect photographic memory, or be able to see up to one day into the future?

I'd like to have a perfect photographic memory as there are many moments, memories I don't want to lose. Wish I could go back to at least one specific memory remembering every detail, air, colors, faces, conversations...

Some Questions with Gizem Vural

What are your favorite things about the art community in NYC?

There are just too many talents, too many art shows, too much to see. There is always somewhere I want to be, people who I want to meet, shows I want to see but most of the time you are too busy with freelance work or it's hard to find time for all of it.

Who has been your biggest support throughout your career?

My husband. From the beginning when I wanted to leave university, stop studying in Istanbul and start over in NY. He never doubted me. It would be so much harder to be where I am right now.

What kinds of stories do you gravitate towards in your comics?

They are just moments from memories. I used to say I draw in my comics about nature or time or a thought but right now it can be about anything, any specific part that I want to focus on and want everyone to see that detail.

What tools were instrumental in developing your unique illustration style?

Colored pencils definitely. It made me realize how I love using colors, making gradients and textures. Then after finding good pencil brushes which could mimic the texture of pencil, I switched to digital programs and that helped me develop my style further.

Is your illustration style influenced by any kind of music in particular? Why?

Some of them might be inspired from jazz music. I love how layered jazz music is and how abstract but in harmony there is always a nice rhythm. It inspired many of my work's compositions and playful use of layers.

What does your family think of your work?

I like to hear their theories and what they find and feel about them. They never guessed I could make money drawing for newspapers and magazines. I like hearing their thoughts while I am lost in my own thought bubble, they make me realize not to take my work too seriously sometimes.

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

Life is short, try to figure out what you want to do with it while you are young.