Personal Journeys of Turkish Creatives in London’s Cultural Scene
Building on our previous exploration of the vibrant Turkish creative community in the UK, we now take a closer look at the personal journeys of four standout individuals who have successfully integrated their Turkish heritage with London’s dynamic creative industries. These stories highlight the challenges, triumphs, and unique contributions of Turkish artists and professionals shaping the cultural landscape of the UK.
Melis Bilen: Merging Turkish Roots with London’s Music Scene
Melis Bilen is a singer-songwriter who seamlessly blends her deep connection to Turkish music with the diverse sounds of London. Since moving to the UK, Melis has been inspired by the freedom of the music scene, which contrasts with the more traditional expectations she faced in Turkey. Her journey reflects a blend of modern pop influences with the soulful undertones of Turkish music, offering a unique fusion that resonates with diverse audiences.
“In Turkey, there’s often pressure to pursue safe career paths, but in London, the creative freedom allowed me to truly find my voice.”
For a more in-depth look, read our full interview with Melis Bilen here.
Gülistan Ertik: Reviving Tradition Through Contemporary Ceramics
Ceramic artist Gülistan Ertik has brought the rich heritage of Turkish pottery to her London studio, “Guli Ceramic London.” Her pieces combine traditional Ottoman and Seljuk motifs with vibrant, modern glazes. Gülistan has created a space that is more than just a studio—it’s a gathering place for friends and a platform for cultural exchange.
“My studio is not just a business; it’s a place where Turkish culture and community thrive, right in the heart of London.”
Discover how Gülistan fuses tradition with contemporary design in our interview here.
Elif Erkmen: Storytelling Through Design
Architect and interior designer Elif Erkmen draws inspiration from her background in theater, weaving narratives into every project she undertakes at Be Studio Interiors and Architecture. Based in London, Elif has embraced the city’s eclectic mix of styles, from classic Victorian to cutting-edge contemporary design, while incorporating elements of Turkish cultural aesthetics.
“For us, every design begins with a story. Just like theater, our projects aim to create a unique experience for each client.”
Explore Elif’s design philosophy and how she connects Turkish and British design traditions here.
Murat Dikici: Innovating with AI and Cultural Heritage
As a tech entrepreneur, Murat Dikici has brought his expertise in digital design and AI from Izmir to London. Murat’s company integrates traditional Turkish design elements into modern digital applications, showcasing motifs inspired by Seljuk and Ottoman art. He sees AI not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a medium for creative expression.
“Our heritage is a treasure trove of inspiration, and using AI, we can reimagine these traditional elements in a digital context that resonates globally.”
Learn more about Murat’s vision for the future of digital design in our interview here.
Building Bridges Through Creativity
The stories of Melis, Gülistan, Elif, and Murat exemplify the impact of Turkish creatives on London’s cultural scene. Their work is a testament to the power of cultural exchange, where the fusion of Turkish and British influences leads to innovative, boundary-pushing art and design. As Turkish British Magazine and CreaPost, we are proud to continue building this bridge, sharing these stories and celebrating the creative synergy between Turkey and the UK.
For a broader analysis of the impact of Turkish professionals in the UK, read our main feature article: Turkish Creatives in London: A Deep Dive.
