"Art is the lie that reveals the truth." Pablo Picasso

ABOUT ME

Ahmet Karakaya is recognized as one of the top five graphic and visual artists in Turkey, known for his multidisciplinary approach and his ability to merge music, cultural heritage, and modern aesthetics into powerful visual narratives.

Karakaya began his creative career as the art director of Müzik Köyü, a platform celebrating world music and cultural diversity. This experience shaped his unique visual language, where traditional motifs and contemporary design meet in a harmonious artistic vision. His years illustrating for Bavul Magazine refined his storytelling ability, while his ongoing work as an illustrator for Kafkaokur Magazine continues to blend literature and visual art into a distinctive creative dialogue.

His portfolio spans both national and international stages. Karakaya has created poster designs for globally renowned artists such as 50 Cent, Imagine Dragons, Wiz Khalifa, and Robbie Williams, bringing his atmospheric style to audiences worldwide. Within the Turkish music scene, he has designed album covers, concert posters, and festival visuals for leading figures including Aylin Aslım, Redd, Mor ve Ötesi, Büyük Ev Ablukada, Cem Adrian, Ceza, Teoman, Can Baydar, and Zülfü Livaneli. He has also collaborated on special projects with major institutions such as Fenerbahçe.

One of his most meaningful contributions has been to the Anatolian Rock Revival Project (ARRP) — an initiative dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the legacy of Anatolian rock music for global audiences. His work within ARRP has strengthened the project’s visual identity and played a role in carrying this cultural movement to an international platform.

Karakaya’s creative philosophy extends beyond producing visually appealing artwork. He views design as a form of cultural expression, a motivational force, and a means of generating value for every collaborator he works with. His passion for typography and font design, combined with the structural and systematic influence of the German design school, forms the backbone of his aesthetic identity.

Influenced by music, Turkish literature, global design principles, and the visual languages of various cultures, Karakaya creates illustrations that carry a distinct, emotional, and authentic voice. Each project reflects a carefully crafted atmosphere and a contemporary artistic vision.

TECHNIQUES I USE

DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION TECHNIQUES

I create my digital artworks using professional tools such as the Apple iPad Pro with Procreate and Wacom tablets. These devices allow me to work with precision, fluidity, and a natural drawing experience that closely mimics traditional techniques. My process often involves layering, custom brushwork, and fine detail rendering to achieve depth and texture. By combining technology with a strong artistic vision, I am able to produce vibrant, expressive illustrations that are both visually striking and technically refined.

TRADITIONAL DRAWING TECHNIQUES

DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION TECHNIQUES

In my traditional works, I carefully select paper with the ideal weight and texture to suit each drawing’s purpose. I often begin with time-honored pencils and tools that carry the essence of classical artistry, then complement them with the precision and versatility of modern drawing instruments. This blend of heritage and innovation allows me to create pieces that feel timeless yet fresh preserving the warmth of traditional craftsmanship while embracing the possibilities offered by today’s technology.

GRAPHIC DESIGN PROCESS

DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION TECHNIQUES

GRAPHIC DESIGN PROCESS

In my graphic design process, I combine digital illustration techniques with professional design software. To ensure visual consistency and create unique content, I capture any necessary photographs with my own camera, adding a personal touch to each project. I also harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance both the efficiency and creativity of my workflow. By blending these elements, I produce work that is technically strong and visually compelling.