In a splendid fusion of colors, cultures and artistic evolution, the Sitka Home Art Gallery on Newbury Street, Boston, welcomes art enthusiasts to an extraordinary exhibition that transcends the conventional boundaries of creativity. Sitka, a name once synonymous with textile design excellence in the world of high fashion, continues to thrive as an artist of profound versatility.
The mesmerizing exhibition, titled “My Hand Behind Ralph Lauren Prints: 1990s-2015,” on view from November 14 through 30, not only unveils the hidden stories of Sitka’s collaboration with the iconic fashion house of Ralph Lauren but also reveals the breathtaking metamorphosis of a gifted textile designer and a masterful painter. Sitka’s artistic journey is one that defies categorization, much like his boundless creative spirit. His art is a testament to a life rich in experiences, a tale of diverse influences that currently coalesce into vibrant canvases and hand-painted one-of-a- kind pillows that captivate the senses.
As you step into the Sitka Home Art Gallery, you are immediately enveloped in the vivacious energy that radiates from his works. The gallery space itself is evidence of Sitka and his wife, Helaine Gulergun’s, unwavering commitment to beauty and perfection. Pristine white walls adorned with rustic brick accents and fantastic lighting design provide the perfect backdrop for Sitka’s creations, which range from intricate paisley patterns to the rich textures of oil paintings.
Sitka’s immersion in the realm of art can be traced back to his Turkish upbringing, where an early passion for creative endeavors laid the foundation for his academic journey. Following four years of rigorous education at Oxford and the attainment of a master’s degree specializing in museum research, printed textiles and fashion illustration from St. Martin’s School of Art in London, Sitka’s professional path led him to the vibrant epicenter of the fashion world, New York City. It was here that he breathed life into the creative visions of renowned fashion houses, including the esteemed Ralph Lauren, and crossed paths with his partner and steadfast advocate, Gulergun, who also shared her talents at Ralph Lauren. Together, they forge aharmonious partnership, illuminating their dedication to art, their individual talents and each other’s triumphs.
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