Encoded

Turkish carpets are deeply embedded in the fabric of Turkish culture, often passed down through generations as both functional objects and symbols of beauty. Many families, including my own, keep them as cherished pieces of decoration. These carpets were my first introduction to art, and they've

always carried a sense of encoded mystery and symbolistic history.

For this collection, I wanted to explore the intersection of this cultural heritage with my own queerness. Historically, Turkish culture has been shaped by the contributions of queer individuals, yet today there is little space for queerness to be openly acknowledged, much less celebrated. This project is my attempt to honor and celebrate both the rich history of Turkish carpetry and the parts of myself that are often

hidden and overlooked. To truly engage with this cultural language of symbols, I spent time studying the intricate symbolism embedded in Turkish carpets. These geometric motifs are not only decorative; they carry deep meanings of protection and manifestation. As I immersed myself into the rich world of Turkish carpets I learned their history, purposes, and their subtle layers of communication. During this research process I not only learned about the existing structure of symbols, but also worked to create my own motifs that reflect my personal narrative and the journey of reconciling my cultural heritage with my queerness. Each motif in this collection is an expression of my own identity, infused with the meanings l've come to understand

and reinterpret. Through this collection, I aim to create a space where the cultural and the personal coexist, and where art can be both a reflection of the past and an expression of who we are now. Ultimately, this collection is a love letter to both sides of my identity, one that honors the past while celebrating the fullness of

who I am today.