Builder creates new worlds from crushed stones


A construction foreman in the Hamur district of Ağrı province has found a creative way to make art out of nature. Bünyamin Adıgüzel collects colorful stones and ceramics from nature and construction sites. He smashes these stones into dust and uses them in his paintings. Speaking to an Anadolu Agency (AA) reporter, Adıgüzel said that he acquires the dust by sculpting the stones and breaking the ceramics into little pieces, noting that he uses glue while making his embossed paintings. Adıgüzel has begun to showcase his works at exhibitions after they drew the attention of art enthusiasts. The artist said he first started by collecting and forming images using stones but lately his passion has turned to painting. "There is nothing that a man cannot achieve as long as he dreams," Adıgüzel said. "I want for my paintings to be recognized by more people," before adding that he needs support from officials before his works can be appreciated, and wants to produce different art forms. He said his paintings have been put on display throughout Turkey, from İzmir to Ağrı. "People who see my works tell me that I am very talented, however; I either cannot explain myself or others fail to understand me," Adıgüzel said, noting, he has a lot of distinctive ideas. He said that he wants to improve himself and produce other forms of art besides painting. He continued, "I want Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University to support me, not only financially but also morally. I want to know even if my work is not worth anything, I would understand it but I just need to hear it. If necessary, I would open a course and train people." The artist noted that he wants to turn Hamur into a pleasant center with the ornaments he makes. He said combining his art and experience in construction sites to make the district a better place is his dream. "Allah is the ultimate artist. That is why art will never fade away. Many things in art have not yet been brought to light. They are waiting for it to be discovered,"Adıgüzel concluded.