İbrahim Kuşlu
Ceramicist
Bursa, Türkiye
Centuries of Anatolian tile art
- İbrahim's ceramic practice centres on Anatolia's ancient tile traditions
- He studies ancient artifacts and uniquely reinterprets their traditional compositions
- He founded his independent workshop in Bursa in 1999
İbrahim Kuşlu recreates Seljuk and early Ottoman motifs using natural clay, quartz and mineral pigments. His journey into ceramics began in 1980 when he trained with different masters in a small workshop. İbrahim is mostly inspired by ceramic artist and professor Turgut Tuna, who guided him as he continued his studies as a guest student at Marmara University, deepening his expertise in traditional Turkish tiles. Today, his pieces are entirely made by hand following tradition, from clay preparation to firing. İbrahim's tiles, vessels, panels and unique decorative works embody both historical depth and modern sensitivity. “Each piece is more than mere decoration. It is a silent witness to the cultural continuity and timeless beauty of Anatolian craftsmanship,” he says.
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INTERVIEW
Using traditional techniques, I prepare my own clay by mixing locally sourced soil, quartz and glass powder, then grind it for hours. Each plate, bowl and tile is hand shaped, coated with a unique slip, and hand painted using pigments such as copper and cobalt oxides. The pieces are glazed and fired in a wood kiln, creating vibrant works that revive centuries-old aesthetics.
My creativity is rooted in Anatolian tile heritage, drawing on motifs from the 11th to 16th-century Seljuk, early Ottoman and İznik periods. I study ancient artifacts and museum collections, reinterpreting traditional compositions through my own artistic vision. Influenced by my mentor Turgut Tuna and the Silk Road, I blend reverence for history with modern design.
In a world dominated by mass production, I aim to keep the art of Turkish tile making alive. Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, tile craft remains entirely handmade in my workshop. Using natural materials and traditional methods, I recreate authentic Seljuk and Ottoman tiles to bridge history with contemporary design.
Preserving the centuries-old tradition of Turkish tile making is my lifelong mission. In my Bursa atelier, I teach apprentices every step of the classical process, from clay preparation to hand painting and firing. Through international exhibitions and cultural collaborations, I aim to spark renewed interest in this ancient craft and ensure its continuity for future generations.
İbrahim Kuşlu
Ceramicist
Bursa, Türkiye
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
LANGUAGES
Turkish, English, Bulgarian
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