Istanbul based artist Mesut Ozturk’s first solo exhibition in the Netherlands, presents a body of work created during his 5-month artist residency at Foundation Bad in Rotterdam. In "Continuity Error," Ozturk explores the delicate interplay between stability and fragility, drawing on his architectural background and experience with ceramics. The exhibition presents two series of works, United and Pressure, each embodying themes of balance, tension, and the fleeting nature of form.
The United series is composed of ceramic parts, held together by clamps, without the use of any adhesive. The pieces, seemingly random in shape, come together to create fluid, continuous forms. Yet, this continuity is an illusion—created by the very clamps that disrupt it. The ceramic pieces are held in a precarious balance, echoing the fragility and resilience found in both material and human conditions. These works invite viewers to reflect on the nature of togetherness and solidarity. Like these ceramics, individual efforts may seem insignificant on their own, but when united, they create something greater and more meaningful.
In the Pressure series, balls—symbols of play and joy—are trapped between construction materials like wooden beams, bricks, and glass. Clamps and chains apply just the right amount of pressure to maintain a delicate equilibrium. Here, Ozturk plays with contrasts: the lightness of the balls against the weight of construction materials, and the joy of play juxtaposed with the tension of compression. This series speaks to the struggle for balance in life, the hidden and visible pressures we face, and the resilience required to maintain our inner equilibrium. The pieces' temporariness, held together only by tension, suggests that just as easily as these structures can be dismantled, we too can release ourselves from life’s constraints and rediscover our inner joy.