Born in Gdynia, Poland, Beata Zalewska graduated from Painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk. She worked there for several years as a graphic designer missing my destiny and dedication which is painting. In 2000 she moved with family to Turkey and started working at the Bilkent University in Ankara as an Art Instructor. There she finally met her Muse again!
– Atmosphere, colors and places were and still are a huge inspiration for me, they leave a lasting impression and move my imagination. Traveling around the country, visiting ancient ruins and the mythic, fairytale Cappadocia, I try to recall mysterious images from the past. A camera which is my sketching tool has become my time vehicle – says Beata Zalewska.
What’s your teaching philosophy?
– Teaching art (drawing, painting, graphic) is a process based on a subjective artistic point of view. Each vision is quite different and dependent upon one’s knowledge and experience. That’s why I am debating with the students some artistic matters and issues given our different cultural backgrounds and heritage. As a teacher and an artist, I want to interact with them in a way that will boost their creativity, productivity and self-confidence.
Pictures © Beata Zalewska