İhsan Cemal Karaburçak, 1897-1970

İhsan Cemal Karaburçak first took up painting in 1930 while in Paris. Dissatisfied with the education there, he studied the works of modern painters like Cézanne, Gauguin, and Matisse. Even though his predominantly abstract works stem from realistic forms like landscapes and still lifes, the artist ascribed little importance to these references. According to Karaburçak, painting needs to reflect the perception of the artist who transforms reality into art. To create this perception, Karaburçak believed that the artist must constantly research and keep a dialogue with his society, history, and identity. He thought Turkish society needs to acquire the necessary knowledge and experience to express a critical viewpoint about art. On the other hand, artists have to be informed about international dimensions of contemporary art.