Emel Ilhan

Emel Ilhan, born in the historically significant city of Canakkale, Turkey, renowned for its pottery, carries the legacy of her hometown in her artistic endeavors. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in ceramic and glass from Marmara University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, Emel’s artistic journey has been shaped by the traditional pottery of her ancient hometown, nurturing her discerning eye for patterns and decorative elements. Through her career as a ceramic tile product developer, she has acquired extensive technical knowledge and expertise in ceramics materials. Emel skillfully combines her passion for researching new materials, surfaces, and colors with a profound fascination for the traditional Canakkale Ceramics of the 18th century.

Emel Ilhan, a talented ceramic artist, has embarked on extensive travels across, Italy, Spain, Azerbaijan, Mexico, China and Türkiye, immersing herself in the rich heritage of both ancient and contemporary ceramics. With a deep-seated desire to uncover the hidden narratives and enigmatic aspects of existence, Emel Ilhan masterfully crafts ceramic pieces that ignite curiosity and invite introspection.

She is currently residing in Fairfax, Virginia, Emel Ilhan balances her creative pursuits with the joys and responsibilities of raising her two children. She is actively engaged in her artistic journey at CIY Pottery in Ashburn, where she continues to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of her ceramic artistry.

My ceramic art delves into the enigmatic and mysterious aspects of the human experience. Guided by emotions, I use clay, glazes, and colors to unveil hidden narratives within each piece. Through simplicity and minimalism, combined with intricate details, my art invites viewers on a journey of self-discovery. Meticulous craftsmanship adds to the enigmatic allure, enticing viewers to explore the hidden textures and nuances.

Drawing from the depths of my soul, I seek to capture the intangible essence of our emotional, mental, and spiritual journeys. Through visual storytelling, I evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue, inviting viewers to reflect on their own enigmatic selves. Embracing experimentation, I push boundaries and explore unconventional techniques to reveal new dimensions of enigmatic expression. Ultimately, my enigmatic art aims to provoke profound contemplation and unravel the enigmatic threads that connect us all. It invites viewers to step into a world where the profound and inexplicable intertwine, sparking a mysterious dialogue with their own hearts and minds.