Türker & Deniz Akman

Papier Atelier

Paper sculptor

A geometric world in paper

Türker and Deniz opened their studio in 2015
Their working method involves hand sketches and digital processes
The characters they create are mostly linked to Turkish traditions

From their Istanbul studio Papier Atelier, husband and wife team Türker and Deniz Akman create a world of sculpted paper populated with characters, objects, symbols and emotions. Their artistic approach is to reflect the authenticity that surrounds them by using elements of modern art, expressing organic forms, feelings and situations in simple, defined geometries. In choosing to work with the simplest material of all – paper – they stay true to their philosophy of handcrafting and slow living. They create installations, stop-motion videos, commercial prop designs and window displays using a low-poly 3D sculpting technique. They have collaborated with many well-known brands such as Johnson & Johnson, Nike and The Body Shop.

Interview

For you, the ‘cycle of paper’ is very important. What is this?: Deniz: It is our making process. The first sketches are born on a sheet of paper, then digitised and processed on a computer. Then we print these out, prepare templates for handcrafting, and add the finishing touches. So the process starts and ends on paper.
Türker, you studied architecture. What made you change career?: Türker: As an architect, I was into paper from my university days. Crafting things out of paper was one of the ways I wanted to express myself. In the paper world, we are free to play and do anything we imagine.
Deniz, why did you leave journalism?: Deniz: I always loved printed publications and paper, of course. But the idea of both designing and crafting by ourselves was very appealing. Besides working with Türker, I have founded a printed lifestyle magazine, Match-up Mag.
How do you combine tradition and innovation?: Türker: We are inspired by our traditions and blend them with technology, then express the outcome through modern art. We are always searching for new techniques and innovations to help improve our work.

Türker & Deniz Akman are expert artisans: they began their career in 2013