Gamze Güliter is a computer engineer and artist based in Milan, who returned to painting after a four-year break triggered by a chance encounter. Her work, especially the Random Access Memories series, lives in the tension between her analytical background and raw human emotion. By blending the structured logic of engineering with the chaotic freedom of abstract art, she embraces imperfection and the dual nature of existence.
Hello, I am Gamze. I was born and raised in Ankara. I graduated from Bilkent University in Computer Engineering, and I am currently living in Milan, pursuing a Master's degree at Politecnico di Milano. Painting has always been in my life. My earliest memory is my parents hanging drawings made by my twin sister and me on the walls. At one point, I was even allowed to paint my bedroom walls. So, painting was never distant or "special" to me; it was always just there.
I wouldn't call it "starting," but I love the story of how I returned to it after a four-year break. A few months ago, while chatting with new people on the street, I said "I actually used to paint" without even knowing why. As the conversation progressed, I showed them my old work and received great feedback. More than the reactions, it made me realize that painting felt like a closed chapter, which got me thinking. A few days later, I walked into a shop and bought my supplies. I started again just for myself. The fact that two strangers were the catalyst for this feels very beautiful and human to me.
Emotions, memories, and my current state of being. Often, it's not grand stories, but small yet lasting feelings that drive me to create.
Duality and contrast usually dominate my paintings. My current series, Random Access Memories, represents this duality in my own character: one part organized, classical, and calm; the other chaotic, messy, and harsh. If there is a recurring theme in all my work, it's a state of being that is far from perfection—human, effortless, accepting of flaws, and existing as it is.
Being away from my country and family forces one to pause and look inward. I spent more time alone with myself, which reignited my desire to produce. Being in an unfamiliar art environment has also made me more courageous and proactive.
I don't consciously put cultural identity at the center. However, I feel the intensity of emotion that comes with being Turkish seeping into my work. Flowers are also important; they are a form that is both emotional and cultural for me.
It takes shape entirely during the process. I only have a color palette in mind before I start. While working, I try to reflect whatever I am feeling at that moment.
The most challenging part is dealing with myself. Since I work abstractly, I want to transfer every emerging emotion onto the canvas instantly. The most enjoyable moment is definitely the process itself; a time entirely for myself.
Because of my engineering background, I felt like I had to choose only one path. Over time, I realized these two fields don't have to exclude each other. My engineering background contributes to my perspective, compositions, and way of producing.
Milan is a city intertwined with art, fashion, and design. Being surrounded by creative people has been very nourishing. This environment has motivated me to be bolder and more productive.
Random Access Memories pt.4 is very special to me. I feel like that painting wants to "leave the house" and belongs somewhere else. My immediate dream is for it to find a home where it is understood. I also want to participate in exhibitions in Milan, other European cities, and Turkey.
Don't wait for approval; don't wait for someone to say "it's beautiful." Produce only for yourself. I believe the most important thing for an artist is to stand behind their own work and own it.