Zeynep Gedikoglu is a sculptor originally from Izmir, Turkey, but currently resides in South Carolina after receiving her PhD from Clemson University. She began sculpting in 2008 using epoxy, clay, acrylic, and wax. Zeynep enjoys international travel, and finds inspiration from nature, indigenous cultures, and history of the different countries she visits. Her work is based on how the human body portrays feelings through displaying movement. As a woman and mother, she deals with issues such as compassion, struggle, bonding, pain, and belief. Her creation process is guided by the intention of recapturing these moments to portray sentiment. Zeynep was a recipient of the South Carolina Arts Commission’s 2023 “Emerging Artists” grant. Zeynep’s gallery opening will include an artist presentation, hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar.