Özgür Canbaz, a distinguished artist renowned for his exploration of the interplay between biomorphic forms and geometric structures, graduated from the Sculpture Department of Marmara University’s Faculty of Fine Arts in 2017. His work, celebrated in both national and international exhibitions, masterfully integrates diverse traditional, cultural, and formal references, imbuing his pieces with layered meanings and interpretations. Specializing in the dynamic juxtaposition of organic and geometric forms, Canbaz predominantly works with stone, with a particular emphasis on marble. His artistic practice is deeply rooted in the contemplation of how these contrasting elements converge, creating a unique dialogue within each sculpture. Currently based in Çanakkale, Özgür Canbaz continues to dedicate himself to his art with profound commitment and precision. We recently had the privilege of engaging with Canbaz to delve into his passion for sculpture, his creative processes, the meticulous craftsmanship embedded in his work, and the rich inspiration he derives from natural materials.
How did you become interested in sculpture?
Like many other artists, my inclination for drawing from a young age persisted into my later years, eventually leading me to join an art studio. I can attribute a significant part of my orientation toward this discipline to the contributions of my teachers in the workshop that I attended while preparing for the Faculty of Fine Arts.
How do the idea and design processes of the work progress for you?
Every design first comes to life with quick doodles and sketches. Every idea to be dimensioned can manifest itself anywhere and anytime. For example, a pleasant sound to my ear, an effective word, phrase, or visual object can be a spark for the journey to begin.
Bust
Foot
Which sources of inspiration feed your creativity?
There are no specific sources that I turn to for inspiration, but as I mentioned before, the coincidental stops I make in the cycle draw a route that leads me to my work.
Can you tell us about your perspective on the natural stone material you prefer to use in your works?
When we look at the historical process, the way that stone reflects light is extremely attractive to me, as well as being a material that has played a major role in the development of humanity, giving its name to the period in which it was used extensively; as well as being a material that has shaped both tool making, architectural structures, and cultural sculptures. Being able to touch and shape the combination of all these phenomena is an indescribable pleasure for me.
Entropi
Hand
Which natural stone types do you prefer for your sculptures?
I had the opportunity to work mostly with Marmara Marble. I also experienced travertine, Kandıra stone, Muğla, and Afyon marbles.
Do you have easy access to Turkish natural stones? Are there any particular quarries you prefer?
I can usually obtain pieces from smaller businesses without contacting the quarries directly, so I have easy access to Turkish natural stones and can produce my work.
Can you talk about the advantages and disadvantages of stone as an artist?
Despite all the difficulties in creating it, the permanence, aesthetics, and nobility of stonework is the material that satisfies me the most at the end of the day. The disadvantages are quite high compared to many other materials; difficulty in transportation, dust, noise, fragility, and financial accessibility.
Figure
Recombination
Are there any specific forms and figures that you include in your works?
In my works, I work on the forms of biomorphic forms that explore the relationship of opposition between geometric forms and biomorphic forms, and that emerge from the dynamic relationship between organic forms and geometric forms.
What would you say about your current works? Is there a new exhibition project soon?
I am in the process of designing my new work. I would like to realize my solo exhibition project when I reach the diversity I have planned.
