#007: We Need To Understand Our Purpose In Life And Then Fulfil That – Esra Kizir Gokcen (London, UK‪)‬ Marriott’s Side Trips

“This challenge taught me to start and finish a drawing without any plan every day.”
 
I had the pleasure of first meeting Esra last summer when she was part of a collaborative exhibition in London, and she enthusiastically talked me through one of her striking pictures on display, which was inspired by the energy of cities, migration and movement. Esra talked passionately about her art, and it felt natural to invite her to be a guest on the show; especially as she’d already embarked on her epic 365-days drawing challenge. So on a rainy spring day, I headed over to her studio in Waterloo (London SE1).
 
Esra is originally from Istanbul, where she had worked as a graphic designer and artist. She’s also a mother, and five years ago she decided to relocate with her kids to London and start a new life. She’s a courageous woman; so it’s no surprise our conversation diverged into other subjects, beyond her 365-days lockdown challenge. We chatted gaining confidence in expressing daily feelings and spiritualism in Esra’s drawings; finding your way in London; acknowledging your purpose; and accepting the here and now.
 
Esra’s art has evolved as she has. This is her lockdown story.
 
PEOPLE AND PLACES MENTIONED
Esra’s website: https://www.esrakizirgokcen.com
Instagram: ekg_art_studio & ekg_365drawings
Make Space Studios: http://www.makespacestudios.com
The artists’ pool: https://www.theartistspool.co.uk
54 the gallery: https://54thegallery.co.uk/category/exhibitions
Renee Rilexie: http://www.rilexie.com
The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
 
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The show’s theme music is by Hanna and Julius, thank you.
Thanks to Esra and Make Space Studios for hosting the podcast on 20/05/2021.