Funda Baysal

Kunstinstituut Melly | Rotterdam, Netherlands

SAHA supports Funda Baysal's project in the group exhibition My Oma at Kunstituut Melly between 8 December 2023 and 1 September 2024.

My Oma gives special attention to embodied knowledge and micro narratives. In the light of increasing political polarization, My Oma promotes historical learning, strengthened intergenerational bonds and celebrates knowledges held among diaspora communities. The bilingual title—with the English my and the Dutch oma for grandmother—is meant to communicate this personal approach. Funda Baysal's new work for the exhibition is inspired by childhood memories of her grandmother and her extraordinary ability to perform everyday tasks.

About Funda Baysal
Born in Ankara, Funda Baysal is an artist and ceramist based in Rotterdam. Her practice explores the relationship between individuals and their surroundings, oscillating between different frameworks. She creates solid forms that come into existence through her use of various materials, material combinations, tools, chemicals, and heat. Baysal holds a BA in Fine Art – Ceramics and Glass from Hacettepe University. For her MA, she practiced at the Escuela de Arte Superior de Cerámica de Manises. Baysal runs a ceramics studio and actively engages in community projects in Rotterdam.

About Kunstituut Melly 
Kunstinstituut Melly was originally conceived as an art-house with a mission to present and discuss the ideas and work created today by visual artists and cultural makers. To fulfill the core mission of presenting contemporary art and theory, they organize exhibitions, commission art, publish and develop educational and collaborative initiatives.