Interview: Temel Nal
Luca Curci talks with Temel Nal during THE BODY LANGUAGE 2020 at Palazzo Ca’ Zanardi.

I am a photographic artist specializing in impressionistic images of landscapes, nature, objects and cityscapes. None of my works are digitally manipulated. I use a unique photographic technique, which I developed, which allows me to ‘paint’ with my camera on-site. My images are a direct result of the impressions I had at the time. I try to capture the infinite variations of our everyday reality, releasing colour from its form. The result is a colour-dominated impressionistic world. All of my work is available in signed, dated and numbered Limited Editions of 7, and printed in varying formats on the highest quality handmade paper or fine aluminium sheets.

Luca Curci – What is art for you?
Temel Nal – Art is many different kinds of reality. There is no one real reality or truth and I capture just one of the many possibilities with my camera. The reality in my art is that colours live, come alive when they are freed from their form. Only through their release, facilitated by light – through their subsequent dance and vibration – only then can my works be created. The release of colour is my main objective. That is art to me.

LC – What are you currently working on?
TN – I am currently working on a new series “Colour Women”. Two images from this new series “BlueWomanInTheGreen I” and “BlueLadyConcept” are at the moment, in the ITSLIQUID Show ‘The Body Language 2020’ in Venice, Italy.

LC – Are your artworks focused on a specific theme?
TN – Yes! Always! I always have a specific theme for my works which then goes on to develop in to a series!

LC – What is your creative process like?
TN – Emotionally and creatively I am continuously fascinated with the dynamics of colour being released from its form. Sometimes I get into almost a state of ‘colour frenzy’ through intense concentration whilst working. I am drawn to specific subjects and locations (landscapes, cityscapes, architecture, etc.). The light, the conditions, the vividness affects me. The right circumstances can transform me. But sometimes my work is very calculated and thought through. Technically I use a specific technique which I created and have honed over the years. It allows me to ‘paint’ with my camera and produce brush – like strokes in the image. The ‘brushstrokes’ go in all directions. This is unusual! I have divulged the technique to only a very few people! The really important point in my work is that I do no post-production with the computer. There is absolutely no digital manipulation. Very rarely I adjust and heighten the colour, but that’s it! Additionally I play with the shutter speed and effective focal length, though I mostly use a wide angle lens and high shutter speeds when taking the picture…

LC – What is the most challenging part of creating your works?
TN – Trying to find the right natural light and location for my shoot and ideas. I only use natural light, so I am always reliant on the elements! I work like the original Impressionists. Outdoors, capturing my impressions with my camera.

LC – We were attracted by your latest artistic production. Has the artwork presented been created for the festival or as a part of pre-existing works?
TN – It was a really happy coincidence that whilst I was working on my latest series “Colour Women” , in Munich, then in Miami, that I learnt of your Festival ‘The Body Language 2020’. Both my series and your theme are a perfect fit!

LC – In which way is it connected?
TN – In my latest series “Colour Women”, I am trying to capture space and visually narrate the language and interplay of the moving human form in its surroundings. Everything is involved: body form, movements, colour, space etc. If I have understood correctly, this is an integral part and one of the main themes of your exhibition ‘The Body Language’.

LC – What do you think of ITSLIQUID Group?
TN – It’s great! You are offering great opportunities to contemporary emerging artists. Exhibitions, marketing services, advice. Its all very positive and supportive.

LC – What do you think about the organization of our event?
TN – The space and organization of the exhibition were very professional. Your support and understanding are highly recommendable.