CENE Pioneer Artist / Founder • Contemporary Turkish Master Artist • Grand Artist Award Winner
First Turkish Female Naval Painter • MFA in Painting
GÖKNİL GÜMÜŞ SUNGURTEKİN
Contemporary Artist
Founder of CENE
Muğla, Turkey
Email: goknilgumus@gmail.com
Portfolio: Saatchi Art | Website | Linktree: Link
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin (b. 1977, Yalıboyu, Beylerbeyi, Istanbul) is an internationally recognized, award-winning contemporary Turkish artist, educator, and the founder of Conceptual Essence Narrative Expressionism (CENE), a research-driven artistic orientation that integrates the emotional intensity of Expressionism with conceptual inquiry and autobiographical narrative structures.
Her practice positions painting as both an expressive and investigative medium, exploring the intersections of feminine energy, consciousness, subconscious processes, transformation, archetypes, and spirituality. Through CENE, her work bridges personal experience with broader philosophical, psychological, and collective dimensions.
Sungurtekin has exhibited internationally and has been recognized as a Top 10 World Artist (2023) and one of 60 World Artists (2024) by the Busan International Environmental Art Festival (BIEAF), where she also serves as a Co - Chair Person (2026) and Steering Committee Member ( 2025- 2024) , contributing to artist selection and curatorial processes.
She is also recognized as the first Turkish female naval artist, holding the honorary rank of Major.
Her work has been featured in international publications, including The Markaz Review (2024), and is included in global collections and platforms such as Saatchi Art and Artmajeur.
Since 2000, she has led Fogart Artist Studio, where she has taught painting, conceptual development, and portfolio preparation, mentoring over 100 students accepted into leading institutions including Pratt Institute, VCUarts, Marmara University, and Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University.
In parallel with her artistic and academic practice, she is the co-founder of Art For Good Project (2020–present), a socially engaged initiative that integrates art with philanthropy across education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and community development
ARTISTIC ORIENTATION
Conceptual Essence Narrative Expressionism (CENE) – Founder
A research-driven artistic orientation integrating:
Conceptual Essence Narrative Expressionism (CENE) is a research-driven artistic orientation developed by Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin. It integrates intuitive painting processes with conceptual inquiry and narrative structures, bringing together emotional intensity, philosophical reflection, and autobiographical depth.
Within CENE, painting functions both as an expressive language and as an investigative method. It establishes connections between personal experience and broader psychological, philosophical, and collective dimensions, positioning the artwork as a space of inner exploration and conceptual articulation.
EDUCATION
Master’s Degree in Painting (MFA-Equivalent Studio Program), 2001–2005
Marmara University, Institute of Fine Arts, Istanbul, Turkey
Thesis: Expressionism in Contemporary Turkish Painting
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Painting, 1996–2000
Marmara University, Faculty of Fine Arts, Istanbul, Turkey
High School Diploma, 1991–1994
Beylerbeyi High School, Istanbul, Turkey
Academic references:
Demirbaş, Uğur (2016). Post-1980 Expressionist Imitations in Turkish Painting. (Unpublished Master’s Thesis). Altınbaş University, Institute of Social Sciences, Istanbul.
Link to thesis
Bunulday, Solmaz (2008). “Group Exhibitions” and “Conceptualization” in Art Production in Türkiye Between 1975–2005. Doctoral Dissertation, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Institute of Social Sciences, Department of Art History, Western Art and Contemporary Art Program, Istanbul.
Link to thesis
SOCIAL & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Art For Good Project (Co-Founder, 2020–Present)
Co-founded with Fatih Sungurtekin, this philanthropic art initiative channels proceeds from artwork sales into education, healthcare, environmental projects, disaster relief, and community development in Turkey and internationally.
Funded orphan schools, clean water wells, and smart village initiatives in Africa
Provided scholarships for fatherless girls in Eastern Turkey
Organized charity art auctions supporting children of healthcare workers lost during COVID-19
Led environmental and animal welfare initiatives in collaboration with TEMA, ÇEKÜL, UNICEF
Produced digital art projects, exhibitions, and social media campaigns to raise public awareness
Contributed to post-disaster recovery via Turkey Earthquake Relief Art Auctions (2001, 2013)
Since 2000, Sungurtekin has also offered free or low-cost art lessons and workshops for underserved communities, integrating social mentorship with artistic practice.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE & MENTORSHIP
Founder & Lead Instructor, Fogart Artist Studio
Istanbul (2000–2022); Muğla (2022–Present)
Provided comprehensive fine arts education for pre-college, undergraduate, and graduate students
Developed individualized, vision-driven curricula integrating painting, conceptual development, portfolio preparation, and interdisciplinary practice
Mentored over 100 students, achieving a 96% placement success rate into institutions including Pratt Institute, VCUarts, Mimar Sinan University, Marmara University, Yeditepe University, ODTÜ, and Işık University
Conducted interdisciplinary workshops combining painting, conceptual projects, digital media, and exhibition practice
Delivered instruction in art history, contemporary art discourse, portfolio development, and interview preparation
Organized joint student–teacher exhibitions, portfolio reviews, museum visits, and biennial programs
Guided students in professional skills including materials, exhibition practices, curatorial thinking, art market navigation, and interdisciplinary collaboration
Integrated Fogart Artist Studio with the Art For Good Project to model a socially engaged, holistic approach to art education
AWARDS & HONORS
Global Artist & International Cultural Artistic Exchanges, Busan International Environmental Art Festival (BIEAF), South Korea, 2025
Co - Chair Person (2026)
BIEAF 2023–2025 Steering Committee Member
60 World Artist, BIEAF, South Korea, 2024
World Artist, Top 10 List, BIEAF, South Korea, 2023
Turkey’s First Female Naval Painter, Turkish Naval Forces, 2004
Honorary Major; Artist-in-Residence aboard TCG Salih Reis
1st Prize, 8th Traditional “Sea” Themed Exhibition, Military Museum, Istanbul, 2004
Exhibition Awards:
Şefik Bursalı Painting Competition, 2009
Gebze Municipality Painting Competition, 2007
Naval Museum Exhibitions, 2004, 2006
DISTINCTIONS & UNIQUE PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS
In 2004, as Turkey’s first female naval artist, she participated in the “Deniz Kurdu 5” military exercise aboard the TCG Salih Reis frigate, spending 12 days at sea in the Mediterranean and producing 30 original works while holding the honorary rank of Major. These works are permanently exhibited in Turkish Naval museums and institutional collections and are also represented in national and international private collections.
SELECTED INTERNATIONAL & GROUP EXHIBITIONS
2025
22nd BIEAF 2025 Invited Artist Exhibition, Busan Catholic Center & Gwangbok Gallery, South Korea
“Lost Center”, BIEAF Online Exhibition
Artmajure, Online Gallery, Paris, 2025–Present
2024
Peggy, Online Gallery, USA, 2024–Present
21st Busan International Environmental Art Festival, Old Future, Gwangbok Gallery,
Busan – BIEAF World Artist & Old Future – Happiness, BIEAF Steering Committee, Busan BEXCO, Sea Gallery & Gwanganri Gallery
Thompson Hotels Gallery (Hyatt), Lola Rose Grand Mezze, Palm Springs, USA
BIEAF 2024 World Artist Exhibition, Sea Gallery & Gwanganri Gallery, Busan – Speak of Contemporary Art in Asia & BFAA, Busan Metropolitan City Exhibition Hall
2023
BIEAF 2023 – Collection of 10–50 Artists, Busan International Environmental Art Festival
World Artist (Top 10 List), BIEAF, Gallery Laham, Busan
Yunus Emre Institute, Madrid, Spain
20th Busan International Environmental Art Festival, Change To Eco, South Korea
Private Museum, Online Gallery, Ordino, 2023–Present
2022
19th Busan International Environmental Art Festival, New Wave Eco, South Korea
2021
OpenSea, Online Gallery, New York
Artmo, Online Gallery, Germany , 2021–Present
2020
Be Hope for Ada, Online Charity Exhibition (SMA Gene Therapy), Istanbul
Saving Nil, Online Exhibition; Kindness is Contagious, Online Charity Exhibition
(COVID Healthcare Workers’ Children), Port Art Colony, Ankara
2019–2022
Singulart, Online Gallery, Paris
2016-Present
Saatchi Art, Online Gallery, New York, 2016–Present
2017
Berliner Liste Contemporary Art Fair with Galeri Gaudi, Berlin
Donosti Artean, Kursaal, with Galeri Gaudi, San Sebastian, Spain
Galeria Gaudi, Madrid
ENIGMA, Nisart Gallery, Istanbul
2017–2009
Fogart Artist Studio Artworks – Student Exhibitions & Joint Projects
2009
Şefik Bursalı Painting Competition, Exhibition Award, Ankara
2008
International Women’s Day Exhibition, Akmerkez, Istanbul
2007
TÜYAP Art Fair, Collective Art Community, Istanbul
Marmara University Faculty of Fine Arts 50th Anniversary Alumni Exhibition
2006
Special Exhibition of Naval Painter Göknil Gümüş, Naval Museum, Istanbul (Organized by Turkish Armed Forces)
9th Traditional “Sea” Themed Exhibition, Exhibition Award, Military Museum, Istanbul, Turkey
2005–2007
1st International Turkey Grameen Microcredit Art Biennial, Tisva, Ankara
Gebze Municipality Painting Competition, “In Memory of Osman Hamdi”, Award, Kocaeli
2004
8th Traditional “Sea” Themed Exhibition, 1st Prize, Naval Museum, Istanbul
Strategies No:2 – Space and Form, Siemens Art Gallery, Istanbul
2004–2003
Permanent Exhibition, Artshop, Istanbul
2002
Momentary, Solo Exhibition, Galeri Artist, Istanbul
Flavor Workshop, İş Bankası Art Gallery, Istanbul
2001
New Suggestions, New Proposals, 7th Borusan Art Gallery, Istanbul
2000
Tayfun Erdoğmuş Students 1st Studio Exhibition, Albrecht Durer Art Gallery
Mezzaluna Workshop, Mezzaluna Restaurants, Istanbul–Ankara
Selected Work, Marmara University Fine Arts Faculty Private Gallery
1999
Marmara University Printmaking Exhibition, Student Works, Marmara University Fine Arts Faculty Private Gallery
Art Fair, Marmara University Fine Arts Faculty Private Gallery
1998
Mezzaluna Workshop – 1, Mezzaluna Restaurants, Istanbul–Ankara
M.Ü. 1st Culture-Art Meeting, Istanbul
INTERDISCIPLINARY & APPLIED ART PROJECTS
Film, television, architectural murals, installations, jewelry design, books, and digital works, including collaborations with cinema, theater, publishing, and cultural institutions (2000–present).
2025 – No Art Music – Bridge of Love, Digital Artwork & Social Media Campaign, Istanbul
2022 – Artı Socks Factory, Istanbul – 4 oil paintings (100x130 cm), Co-Artist: Fatih Sungurtekin
2018 – Carola Urbschat, Bunte Musik für Akkordeon (Children’s Accordion Book), Cover: Accordion Series VII
2015 – Private Residence (H. Kargın), Batıkent, Istanbul – Pearl paint textures, wall murals, gold leaf ceilings & columns
2014 – Videksan Jewelry, Istanbul – 2 trapezoid oil paintings; Soma Mining Disaster conceptual window display
2014–2017 – Jewelry Design Mentorship for Başak Başdaş, TessTesbih brand collections
2013 – Yasemin Pforr, “Durun İnecek Var!” Book – Empathy Series No: 2 (from 2001 earthquake auction)
2012 – Selim Bey Konağı, Sultanahmet – Traditional ceiling motifs, gold leaf restoration
Halk Bankası Karaköy Branch – Marble-effect columns & corridors
2010 – Av Mevsimi - Hunting Season (Dir. Yavuz Turgul) – Imaginary family portraits (Battal Çolakzade), Co-Artist: Fatih Sungurtekin
2007 – Sis ve Gece - Fog And Night (Dir. Turgut Yasalar) – Interior decorations & installations
Cow Parade Workshop, Istanbul – 2 three-dimensional cow sculptures (flock, mud
crack technique)
2006–2008 – Hatırla Sevgili – Remember Dear (ATV, 68 episodes) – Patisserie set mural paintings, Co-Artist: Fatih Sungurtekin
2005–2007 – Gümüş - Silver (Kanal D, 100 episodes) – On-set exhibition & artwork display
Acarkent Residences, Kavacık – Pearl paint + gold leaf on ceilings, columns
2005 – Red Bull Auction – “Red Bull Gives Wings!” (Air Race themed works by Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin)
2004 – Athena – 49th Eurovision – Oil-painted hat design (Hakan Özoğuz)
2002 – Venta Del Toro, Galata – 40 m² wall mosaics, Co-Artist: Fatih Sungurtekin
2001 – Ejder Oyunu Theater (Barış Manço Cultural Center) – Stage design & dancer
2000 – Marmara University Rectorate – 20 m wall mosaic (under Prof. Devabil Kara)
Mezzaluna 00 Workshop – “Women & Service” critique, 50x50 cm oil on canvas
1998 – Mezzaluna 98 Workshop – “Cooking & Kitchen” abstraction, 50x50 cm oil on canvas
CURATORIAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE
2026 – Moment Solo Exhibition, Artist Fatih Sungurtekin – Curator: Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin
2005–2021 – BIEAF Selection CommitteeArtist selection and exhibition curation
2002 – Assistant to Komet & Co-Curator, Complicité, Dirimart Nişantaşı Opening, Istanbul
Managed 100 artists; catalog production; press coordination; installation
2003–2005 – Curator & Gallery Consultant, ArtShop Gallery, Istanbul
Exhibition planning; artist representation; sales management
Installation & Wall Design – Borusan Art Gallery; TÜYAP Art Fair, Collective Art Community
New Proposals, New Suggestions 7 (Göknil Gümüş) & ( Other artists)
2026 – Moment Solo Exhibition, Artist Fatih Sungurtekin – Curator: Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin
ONLINE & DIGITAL COLLECTIONS
Saatchi Art (New York) – Primary portfolio
MEDIA & PUBLICATIONS (Selected)
Anastasiadou, Nektaria. “Who Decides What Makes for Authentic Middle East Fiction?” The Markaz Review, International Cultural Magazine, 2024. Featured artwork: Respect Street for Fikret Mualla (Oil on Canvas) by Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin
NNC No Name Collective Magazine, 2023
Press features: Radikal, Hürriyet, Milliyet, Marie Claire (2001–2004)
TV Interviews: NTV & CNBC-e (2001)
Archives: Salt Research, Turkish Naval Command, İş Bankası
DIGITAL & TECHNICAL SKILLS
Website design and management (self-developed professional portfolio site: Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin
Digital painting and illustration: Adobe Photoshop
Online art platform management: Saatchi Art, Artmajeur, OpenSea, Private Museum, Peggy
Social media content creation and digital campaigns for art projects
Digital project coordination, e.g., Art For Good Project
ARTISTIC & CREATIVE SKILLS
Conceptual and contemporary painting
Expressionist and narrative-based visual storytelling
Multimedia and installation practices
Workshop leadership and mentorship
Curatorial planning and exhibition organization
Göknil Gümüş Sungurtekin continues her artistic research and production at Fogart Artist Studio in Muğla, sustaining a contemporary, research-driven, and socially engaged artistic practice with local and international reach.
