Artist Bio

Emel İlhan (b. Çanakkale, Turkey) is a ceramic artist, educator, and researcher deeply influenced by the rich pottery traditions of her hometown. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramic and Glass from Marmara University's Faculty of Fine Arts. Her artistic journey is shaped by a deep appreciation for the patterns and decorative elements of traditional Çanakkale ceramics, which she seamlessly weaves into her contemporary practice.

With a background in ceramic tile product development, Emel has acquired extensive technical expertise in ceramic materials, surfaces, and colors. She passionately explores new materials while remaining deeply connected to the historical roots of 18th-century Çanakkale ceramics. Her work seeks to uncover hidden narratives and evoke introspection, blending tradition with innovation.

Emel's artistic path has taken her across Italy, Spain, Azerbaijan, Mexico, China, and the USA, where she has immersed herself in both ancient and contemporary ceramic traditions. Currently residing in Gelibolu, Çanakkale, she balances her creative practice with teaching ceramics at a community center and in her home studio, Neva Ceramics, while raising her two children.

Exhibitions, Awards & Recognitions

• Conference Presenter, The Ceramic City Canakkale - NCECA’s 59th Annual Conference, Formation, in Salt Lake City, Utah (2025)

• 102 Years, 102 Exhibitions: Interpretations of Çanakkale Ceramics from Past to Present – Çanakkale, Turkey (2025)

• Traditional Çanakkale Ceramics Preservation Association: Group Ceramics Exhibition – Istanbul, Turkey (2024)

• 2nd International Ceramics Biennial: Where Are You Going? – Bursa, Turkey (2024)

• Traditional Çanakkale Ceramics Preservation Association: Reunion Exhibition – Çanakkale, Turkey (2024)

• Blue: More than a Color Exhibit – The Artist in Middleburg, Virginia, USA (2024)

• Floating Ceramics Exhibition – Çanakkale, Turkey (2024)

• Summer Dreams Exhibit – The Artist in Middleburg, Virginia, USA (2023) – Honorable Mention

• Marmara University Faculty of Fine Arts Graduation Exhibition – Istanbul, Turkey (2008)

• 68th State Painting and Sculpture Competition Exhibition – Istanbul, Turkey (2007)

• 43rd International Troy Festival Ceramics Competition Exhibition – Çanakkale, Turkey (2006)

With an unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and storytelling, Emel İlhan continues to push the boundaries of ceramic artistry, bridging the past and present through her evocative works.