7041, Dry Ice

Kunstner

Lisa Nankivil

Født i Minneapolis, United States of America

The Luminous Stripes of Lisa Nankivil

Born in Minneapolis, United States of America, Lisa Nankivil has carved a singular space within the realm of contemporary American abstraction. Her journey into the heart of color and form began far from the studio easel, rooted in the scenic landscapes of Winona, Minnesota. Growing up on her family's Sahaptin Farm, an Appaloosa horse breeding operation nestled in the bluff country of the Mississippi River, Nankivil developed an early connection to movement and natural rhythm. This formative period as a junior champion rider instilled a sense of grace and vitality that would later manifest in the energetic, rhythmic compositions of her mature work.

Before fully committing to the life of a painter, Nankivil sought inspiration in the vibrant pulse of San Francisco. There, she immersed herself in the world of graphic design, working as an independent art director within the fast-paced film and advertising industries. This professional background in visual communication provided her with a sophisticated understanding of composition and impact, which she would later reintegrate into her fine art practice. Upon returning to her roots, she pursued formal training at the University of Minnesota and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where she earned her BFA in Painting in 1995.

A Mastery of Color and Form

Nankivil is most celebrated for her non-representational, striped-format oil paintings and her evocative abstract monoprints. Her technique is a delicate dance of layering and manipulation, utilizing innumerable bands of color and transparent glazes to create a sense of profound luminosity. Through the process of optical mixing, she invites the viewer into a close encounter with the complex interplay of light and texture. Her canvases are not merely surfaces but are breathing entities that pulse with a vibrant, internal energy.

The evolution of her signature style is deeply tied to her exploration of spatial relationships. As noted by art historian William Peterson, Nankivil’s move toward the striped format emerged from an intense focus on figure-ground dynamics. In her quest to make the background as essential as the subject itself, she began to strip away representational imagery, leaving behind only the vertical and horizontal orientations of color. This structural discovery was profoundly influenced by the writings of John Berger, specifically his notion that "Home is where the vertical meets the horizontal." For Nankivil, this concept transcends architecture, representing a spiritual search for ground and well-being.

Recognition and Legacy

The significance of Nankivil’s contribution to contemporary art is reflected in both her prestigious accolades and her presence in esteemed permanent collections. Her dedication to the craft has been recognized through several notable honors, including:

Jerome Foundation Fellowship for Emerging Artists

Artist Initiative Grant from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund

Her work resonates far beyond the borders of Minnesota, finding homes in distinguished institutions such as the Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Borusan Center for Culture and Arts in Istanbul, Turkey. Whether through her traditional oil paintings or her innovative digital explorations using archival pigment prints on iPad, Nankivil continues to push the boundaries of perception, revealing the subjective beauty found within the architecture of light and color.

Museum

Borusan Contemporary

Udstillet i Istanbul, Turkey

A Hauntingly Beautiful Fusion: Discovering Borusan Contemporary

Nestled within the enigmatic Perili Köşk – literally “Haunted House” – in Istanbul’s historic Rumelihisarı district, Borusan Contemporary isn't merely a museum; it’s an immersive journey through time and artistic expression. This unique space, straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, offers a captivating dialogue between Turkey’s rich past and its vibrant contemporary art scene. The building itself – a meticulously preserved blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles – whispers tales of opulent residences and local lore, immediately establishing an atmosphere of intriguing mystery that sets the stage for the dynamic works housed within. Borusan Contemporary stands as a testament to Turkey's commitment to fostering cultural dialogue on both a national and international scale, showcasing a collection that boldly embraces innovation while honoring tradition.

The Perili Köşk’s history is inextricably linked to the museum’s very existence. Originally constructed as a private residence overlooking the breathtaking Bosphorus Strait, this architectural gem carried an aura of intrigue from its inception. Its layered past – evolving from a symbol of lavish living to a landmark imbued with local legends and tales of spectral sightings – provides a profoundly resonant backdrop for the art on display. The juxtaposition of the mansion’s ornate façade with the often-challenging and avant-garde works within is deliberate, a key element in Borusan Contemporary's ethos. It invites visitors to contemplate the enduring interplay between past and present, tradition and innovation, creating an experience far richer than simply viewing art.

A Dynamic Collection: Exploring Contemporary Visions

Borusan Contemporary distinguishes itself from traditional museum models through its perpetually evolving program of exhibitions. Rather than adhering to a static collection, the museum thrives on showcasing diverse mediums – from thought-provoking sculptures and immersive installations to vibrant paintings and cutting-edge digital art forms. Visitors can anticipate encountering works by both established Turkish artists and rising international stars, each offering unique perspectives within the contemporary landscape. A particular strength lies in its embrace of new media: video art that challenges perceptions, neon installations that transform space, and interactive pieces that invite active engagement. The collection’s evolution reflects a forward-looking vision, continually incorporating experimental and digital artworks – a deliberate choice mirroring the museum's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

The foundation of Borusan Contemporary’s collection began with a focus on Turkish Modern and Contemporary Art, but it has dramatically expanded over the decades. In the 2000s, the museum embraced international artists like Donald Judd and Sol LeWitt, demonstrating a willingness to engage with global artistic trends. This expansion culminated in a deliberate commitment to experimental and digital artworks, solidifying Borusan Contemporary’s position as a leading voice in showcasing innovative approaches to art-making. The collection now boasts over 730 works, representing a diverse range of styles and mediums, all united by their exploration of contemporary themes and ideas.

The Legacy of Support: The Borusan Kocabıyık Foundation

The existence of Borusan Contemporary is deeply rooted in the unwavering commitment of the Borusan Kocabıyık Foundation. Supported by the substantial resources of Borusan Holding A.Ş., a diversified industrial group, the museum operates as more than just an exhibition space; it functions as a vital educational hub dedicated to engaging visitors with modern art concepts and practices. This dedication extends beyond simply displaying artwork – Borusan Contemporary actively commissions new works, provides crucial support for emerging artists, and fosters cultural exchange through international collaborations. The foundation’s investment ensures that the museum remains a dynamic force in promoting contemporary art within Turkey and connecting it to the global artistic community.

More Than Just a Museum: An Istanbul Destination

What truly sets Borusan Contemporary apart is its seamless blend of cutting-edge artistry with the captivating charm of its historical setting. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in immersive installations, contemplate challenging ideas, and connect with art on a deeply emotional level – all while surrounded by the echoes of centuries past. Whether you are an avid collector seeking inspiration, an interior designer searching for innovative aesthetics, or simply an art enthusiast eager to explore Istanbul's cultural landscape, Borusan Contemporary offers an unforgettable experience that will linger long after you leave its hauntingly beautiful halls. The museum’s location within the Perili Köşk adds a layer of mystique and intrigue, transforming a visit into something truly special – a journey through both artistic innovation and historical resonance.