The story of an artist who tries to create goodness by holding on to art...

Dilyana Petrova Erşahin was born on March 26, 1986, in Doulovo, Bulgaria. Her artistic journey began at the age of 7 when she started drawing her nightmares, and since then, painting has remained her greatest passion. Between 1989 and 2022, Dilyana lived in Turkey, spending the last 12 years in Istanbul. She currently resides in Almere, Netherlands.

The cultural changes, identity search, and the struggles of belonging that came with migrating to two different countries have become the foundation of her life and art. As a migrant daughter, the feelings of displacement and rootlessness have left deep marks on her work.

Starting her artistic career academically with a degree in Fine Arts and Graphic Design, Dilyana has also maintained a professional career deeply intertwined with art. For the past 14 years, she has served as an Art Director at an advertising agency she co-founded, continually renewing herself creatively and aesthetically as an artist.

Dilyana has successfully transformed the traces of the depression and emotional ups and downs she has experienced over the years into her art. During this process, she has used art both as a form of healing and as a means of self-expression. The deep colors and surreal imagery she employs in her works aim to draw the viewer into the depths of the subconscious.

In each of her works, the artist employs powerful imagery such as "eyes" and "red lips" to create a distinct narrative. She views the eyes as a connection to the soul, and through vibrant, contrasting colors, she strives to communicate this connection to the viewer's mind. The eyes, for her, are not just a gaze but doors to an inner journey.

Dilyana uses her art not only as a personal expression but also as a tool to fulfill her social responsibilities. By spending 25% of the proceeds from each sale of artworks on basic needs such as education and shelter for girls, it aims to give them a safer future.

In her art, Dilyana combines acrylic, pastel, and mixed-media collage techniques to add depth to her textured works and create emotional engagement through surreal elements. Additionally, she continuously participates in printmaking, photography, and ceramics workshops to further develop her artistic skills.