When coronavirus quarantines were announced, more than a year ago, artists began sending in sketches about our new, locked-in reality. One of those sketches, from Gürbüz Doğan Ekşioğlu, who is based in Istanbul, looked far ahead, imagining the thrill and poignancy of a world reopening. Today, the pandemic is far from over, but many countries are finally exhaling, and it seemed apt to publish Ekşioğlu’s image. We recently talked to the artist about his pandemic experience.
How has COVID-19 affected you in the past year?
During the crisis, I felt a deep anxiety and fear of death. Having to be home all the time made me feel as if my soul were in the dark. But now that I and many of my friends and family are vaccinated, I feel much better.
Did you remain confined for a long time, and, if so, how did that affect your artistic production?
Ironically, the lockdown positively affected my artistic production. I probably drew about twenty new pieces, which I published on social media. I also produced work for a personal exhibition that will open after the pandemic. And, since I’m a professor at a university, I’ve continued my courses online.
This image expresses what many of us feel when there’s an easing of restrictions. Is life in Istanbul regaining some normalcy?
Unfortunately, only about fifteen per cent of the population is vaccinated in Turkey. So, no: we’re still under lockdown, there are many curfews, and we have to use masks everywhere. But one can hope. I dreamed of returning to life while I was working on this image. Today, I am happy to be closer to that dream.
What’s the first place you’ll want to visit once it’s safe to be out in the world?
I want to come back to New York as soon as I can. It’s been ten years since I was last there, and I miss the city very much.
See below for more covers by Ekşioğlu:
Find Gürbüz Doğan Ekşioğlu’s covers, cartoons, and more at the Condé Nast Store.
