Versatile artist Suat Ar?kan at Almelek

Istanbul?s Almelek Art Gallery is welcoming the seventh solo exhibition by Suat Ar?kan, an artist for both his musical and painting ability.

A graduate of the Ankara State Music Conservatory in Ankara with high honors with a degree in voice and opera, baritone and painter Ar?kan studied voice with Cemil Sökmen at the Ankara State Conservatory of Music and began his career as a soloist at the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet.

Ar?kan also pursues painting from an expressionist point of view. In so doing, he uses bolder colors but simpler light. In his new exhibition, which displays his recent paintings, the lyricism of music is heard better.

He studied voice with legendary Turkish soprano Leyla Gencer, as well as Dan Iordacescu, Daniel Ferro and Licinio Montefusco. Ar?kan has sung a wide repertoire of both concert music and opera from the 17th century to contemporary music both in Turkey and abroad.

In 2002-2003 season, the artist worked as the director and art director of the Mersin State Opera and Ballet. He continued the same duty at the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet.

Serving as a jury member in various competitions and winning awards, Ar?kan was presented with the Order of Chivalry by Italy?s president in 2006 due to his contributions to art.

Ar?kan has also written various articles for opera magazines and newspapers and presented various radio programs.

Following Istanbul University and M?mar Sinan University, Ar?kan has continued to serve the education sector at the Haliç University State Conservatory in Istanbul.

The exhibition at the Almelek Art Gallery will continue through March 14.