Interview: Birute Celik
Luca Curci talks with Birute Celik during MIXING IDENTITIES, second appointment of CANVAS INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR 2024, at Palazzo Albrizzi-Capello.

Birute Celik is a visionary contemporary artist who embarked on a transformative journey from the corporate skies to the boundless realms of artistic expression. With over two decades of distinguished leadership in the tourism industry and a tenure as Vice President of a prominent aviation corporation, Birute decided to leave the structured world of business to pursue her true passion: art. Birute’s artwork is a vibrant tapestry of colors drawn from her global adventures, each piece infused with the soul of the places she has seen. Her abstract creations are not just paintings; they are emotional landscapes that capture the essence of the world as seen through her eyes. Utilizing bold, dynamic brushstrokes and an intuitive approach to color, Birute’s work embodies the freedom and fluidity of abstract expressionism.

Luca Curci – How did you get into photography? Do you remember why you took your first professional photo? 
Birute Celik – My background lies in the corporate world, where I held positions like Chief Commercial Officer and Vice President of Sales in global companies. But, what truly shaped me is my constant pursuit of freedom. Through extensive global travels, I found inspiration in the abstract – the unpredictability of cultures, landscapes, and people. This exposed me to a world without strict boundaries or rules, a world where creativity flows freely. That desire for unstructured expression led me to leave behind the corporate constraints and fully dive into the world of art, where I could explore, create, and discover in a more fluid and abstract way.

LC – Which subject are you working on? 
BC – I’m currently focused on my new Earth series, a deep exploration of the relationship between the  Earth, moonlight, the textures of our planet, and its ever-evolving structures. I’m also working on textural paintings and creating a series, “Embossed Reverie”, where the physicality of the material invites viewers to not just see but to feel the artwork. It’s a way of grounding abstract ideas in something tangible, allowing the audience to experience the complexity of the world we inhabit in a more visceral way.

LC – Is there an unrealised or unrealizable project, even a crazy one, that you would like to work on?
BC – Absolutely! Textured art is my deep passion, and one of my dreams is to dive into the world of ceramics. I have this vision of creating unique, textured ceramic vases – each one different in shape, texture, and size, almost like a sculpture. These vases would reflect the abstract and tactile quality that I love in my paintings but brought into a more three-dimensional form. I’ve been dreaming about it for some time but haven’t dared to start yet. It’s a bit out of my current comfort zone, but it’s definitely something I see myself exploring in the near future.

LC – What are the three hashtags essential to define your poetics that you could not give up?
BC – #abstractfreedom #makeyoursoulgrow. #lovewhatyoudodowhatyoulove 

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
BC – My inspiration comes from a mix of experiences and sources. Traveling to art fairs and exhibitions is a huge influence – I’m constantly in awe of how artists from different parts of the world interpret their surroundings and emotions. It’s a reminder of how diverse and boundless creativity can be. People, with their stories and perspectives, also shape my work; every conversation can spark a new idea. Books open up entire worlds of thought, while music has this incredible ability to transport me emotionally – its rhythms and melodies often guide the flow and feeling of my creations. The current book I am reading “The World According to Color”  by James Fox, tells a history of the world according to colour drawing on art, literature, philosophy, science, anthropology and much more. The current playlist I am listening to recently when I am all in my creating process is a Lithuanian singer, Daddy Was a Milkman and his latest release, Quite Something:  https://open.spotify.com/album/6GGVpNnuAI9aSjvZONbIcE?si=0eXouAqHQm2Ifvbmlv5-1w. Each of these sources brings something unique, feeding into my artistic process in different ways.

LC – Your last artistic production attracted us, has the artwork presented been created for the exhibition or as a part of preexisting works?
BC – “Arrested Eternity” painting is a standout piece from my Urban Pulse series. It merges the raw energy of street graffiti with a modern, elegant aesthetic. The painting features layered textures created with paste and acrylics, giving it a rich, tactile quality. Soft tones of Venetian rose and muted grey create a serene backdrop, while vibrant splashes of turquoise crayon and delicate touches of gold leaf add dynamic contrast. The result is a harmonious blend of urban grit and refined beauty, a reflection of the pulse of city life captured in a moment of stillness.

LC – Do you agree with our vision of art and what do you think about the theme of the exhibition?
BC – The exploration of the connection between desires, needs, and fears of change and transformation deeply resonates with me. I’ve personally undergone this journey – leaving behind a structured, comfortable world and a successful career, yet feeling unfulfilled. It wasn’t until I immersed myself in art that I began to find peace and purpose. The themes of identity, transformation, and the evolution of our inner world are not just abstract concepts for me – they are my reality. I’m living this transformation every day, and it’s what I pour into my canvases. Through my work, I invite others to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery, transformation, and the reimagining of who they are.

LC – What do you think about ITSLIQUID Platform?
BC – It’s a great platform inviting artists worldwide, arranging art exhibitions in beautiful galleries, creating evolving communications, contests and activities like It’s Liquid ambassadors or Featured artists, etc. It’s a great place to be and exchange visions and gain more contacts!

LC –  What do you think about the organization of our event?
BC – The best events are those where you can simply meet and talk with people in an authentic way. There’s no sense of competition or judgment, just a genuine exchange of ideas and experiences. It was a pleasure to meet the Itsliquid team and have the opportunity to connect with other artists, discussing their work and creative journeys. That kind of interaction – pure and open – is what truly enriches the artistic experience!