Gönül Kaplan, a Turkish Cypriot artist living in the borough, is among the exhibitors at this year’s Bexley Arts Trust Open Art and Sculpture Exhibition, with three paintings on display at The Stables Art Gallery, Hall Place & Gardens.
From illness to exhibition floor
Kaplan’s return to painting followed a period of serious illness about a decade ago. During recovery she gradually reintroduced art into her life and, prompted by the Covid-19 lockdown, committed more time to developing her technique. She later took formal classes to refine her work.
“Art helps calm me,” Gönül told Londra Gazete.
Her selection for the Bexley exhibition marks a significant milestone: two of her three displayed works were sold on the opening day, signalling immediate local interest in her canvases. One notable piece combines imagery that reflects her dual cultural identity, featuring figures and London landmarks together.
Community links and charitable work
Kaplan has used her skills for community benefit in the past. A portrait she painted of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was donated to a Turkish school and sold to raise funds. She also volunteers at the Bexley Turkish Day Centre and serves on its committee, maintaining active ties with local civic and cultural organisations.
Details of the exhibition:
- Event: Bexley Arts Trust Open Art and Sculpture Exhibition
- Venue: The Stables Art Gallery, Hall Place & Gardens
- Dates: 16 July – 12 August
| Artist | Works exhibited | Sales on opening |
|---|---|---|
| Gönül Kaplan | 3 paintings | 2 sold |
The exhibition provides a platform for local artists across the borough and forms part of Bexley’s cultural calendar. For residents it is an opportunity to view a range of contemporary work, support local talent and engage with community-focused arts initiatives.
Kaplan’s story — of illness, recovery and renewed purpose through creativity — underlines the wider role of arts provision in wellbeing. Her immediate sales suggest both a local appetite for new work and the importance of accessible venues such as Hall Place in showcasing diverse voices from across Bexley.
