Art News
Cemal Toy’s art: Tool for social impact, global solidarity
ISTANBUL : Cemal Toy centers his work around humanity's universal emotions and stories, embracing the mission of using his art as a tool for social responsibility and solidarity. Drawing inspiration from the diversity and common emotions of human experience, the artist aims to impact both individuals and society through art. Following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, Toy
Cemal Toy's Artistic Journey and Social Responsibility
Cemal Toy centers his work around humanity’s universal emotions and stories, using his art as a tool for social responsibility and solidarity. Drawing inspiration from human diversity and common emotions, Toy aims to impact individuals and society through art. After the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, Toy redirected his art towards charitable efforts, using it to foster social solidarity and raise global awareness through international projects.
When asked what inspires him, Toy said: “At the center of my artistic journey and source of inspiration is the human being. Although each of us has a unique story, we can meet through fundamental human emotions and thoughts. Art allows us to reach out to all people beyond geography and words. This idea has motivated me throughout my artistic life.”
“I have met many art enthusiasts from different backgrounds and cultures, both local and international, and have had students of all ages. Art is such a communication tool that these differences do not pose a barrier.”
“In my paintings, I explore feelings of tranquility, curiosity, and amazement. Sometimes, I aim to evoke calm and inner balance through colors and compositions. Other times, I emphasize vibrant, cheerful, and dynamic aspects of life. A theme I frequently explore is cityscapes, conveying the dynamism of city life and human interactions, or the tranquility of homes and inner worlds. I use colors, forms, abstract and concrete elements, and various materials to create this effect.”
“The stories in cities and streets are as diverse as the number of cities in the world, yet they are similar in essence and related to humanity. When depicting Istanbul and Anatolian cities, I incorporate elements such as Ottoman miniatures, old Turkish houses, historical structures, traditional motifs, and Turkish carpet patterns. These cultural and traditional textures add aesthetic value and meaning to my paintings.”
After the Kahramanmaraş earthquake on Feb. 6, 2023, Toy decided to donate his artwork to charity. The widespread destruction and urgent needs during the crisis led him to consider how he could help. Art became a source of healing and hope, inspiring a collective social responsibility movement. Toy and his collaborators organized charity exhibitions under the title “Rising from the Ashes,” raising funds to build houses for earthquake survivors. The initiative expanded internationally, with exhibitions in New Jersey, Kuwait, Milan, Bangladesh, and Malaysia.
In Malaysia, the focus was on Palestine, with an exhibition titled “Voice of Resistance” supported by students and colleagues. This exhibition aimed to provide humanitarian aid and increase global awareness of the Palestinian crisis. The ongoing “Voice of Resistance” series will continue in various countries, including Indonesia, Spain, Dublin, Qatar, and Cape Town, South Africa, in collaboration with local artists and organizations.
Toy emphasizes the social responsibility of artists, stating: “Art has a powerful impact on individuals and society. Artists must recognize the significance of this gift and use it to highlight important issues. Our responsibilities include preserving artistic heritage, cultivating hope during tough times, and understanding contemporary issues.”
He also notes the importance of inspiring young artists to go beyond technical skills and artistic expression. Toy observes that his younger students are sensitive to social issues, often reflecting on these issues through their art. “We are going through tough times, but I am hopeful for our future,” he concluded.
Courtesy: Dailysabah
author The Frontier Post