Tuba Ahsan is an award-winning Turkish visual artist and oil painter based in Istanbul, Turkey. Born in the early 1980s in Istanbul, she has over 17 years of experience in art and fashion design. She is known for creating evocative oil paintings that explore women's identity, cultural heritage, and resilience across civilizations. Her work has been exhibited in more than 6 countries including the USA, Kuwait, Italy, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Turkey. She is also recognized for her humanitarian work, having raised over $400,000 for earthquake relief through her 'Rising from the Ashes' exhibition series.

What is Tuba Ahsan known for?

Tuba Ahsan is known for: 1) Her 'Selected Works' series of oil paintings depicting women across different cultures and civilizations, 2) The 'Rising from the Ashes' humanitarian art exhibition that raised nearly $400,000 for Turkey-Syria earthquake victims in 2023, 3) Her art therapy programs for refugee and orphan children, 4) Her fashion design work featured in Harper's Bazaar Türkiye and Marie Claire Türkiye, and 5) Co-founding Birlikte Sanat (Together for Art) Society for humanitarian art initiatives.

How can I commission artwork from Tuba Ahsan?

To commission custom artwork from Tuba Ahsan, you can: 1) Contact her directly via email at me@tubaahsan.com, 2) Call or WhatsApp at +90 532 551 7375, 3) Schedule a consultation through the website contact form, or 4) Book a meeting via Calendly. Commission options include custom oil portraits, landscape paintings, cultural themed artworks, and corporate art pieces. Pricing varies based on size, complexity, and subject matter. International shipping is available worldwide.

Does Tuba Ahsan offer art therapy programs?

Yes, Tuba Ahsan offers comprehensive art therapy programs designed for children and adults. Programs include: Mandala Art Therapy for focus and anxiety reduction, Expressive Painting for emotional expression, Mask Making for identity exploration, Collage Therapy for processing experiences, Clay Sculpting for stress relief, and Dream Catcher workshops for addressing fears. She has conducted art therapy sessions for refugee and orphan children in Malaysia in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy, Yunus Emre Institute, and Kakiseni organization.

Where has Tuba Ahsan exhibited her artwork?

Tuba Ahsan has exhibited her artwork internationally in over 6 countries: 1) USA - 'Colors of Hope' at IMUR Gallery, Jersey City, New Jersey, 2) Kuwait - 'Rising from the Ashes' at Boushahri Art Gallery, Kuwait City, 3) Italy - 'Rising from the Ashes' at Palazzo Delle Stelline, Milan, 4) Bangladesh - 'Rising from the Ashes' at Aloki Convention Center, Dhaka, 5) Malaysia - 'Voices of Resistance' in Kuala Lumpur, and 6) Turkey - Various exhibitions in Istanbul and Ankara.

What is the 'Rising from the Ashes' exhibition?

'Rising from the Ashes' is a humanitarian art exhibition series curated by Tuba Ahsan in collaboration with Birlikte Sanat Society following the devastating February 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake. The exhibition toured through Jersey City (USA), Kuwait City, Milan (Italy), and Dhaka (Bangladesh), uniting artists from multiple countries. It raised nearly $400,000 USD for earthquake relief, which funded the construction of 18+ sustainable wooden houses for affected families in Dörtyol, Hatay, Turkey.

What style of art does Tuba Ahsan create?

Tuba Ahsan creates contemporary figurative oil paintings characterized by: rich color palettes inspired by Turkish and global cultures, depictions of women from various civilizations and cultures, themes of identity, heritage, resilience and feminine strength, influences from her travels across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas, and a blend of traditional oil painting techniques with modern sensibilities. Her work spans cultural portraits, Istanbul cityscapes, Anatolian scenes, and abstract explorations of human connection.

How much do Tuba Ahsan's paintings cost?

Tuba Ahsan's original oil paintings and commission prices vary based on size, complexity, and subject matter. Custom commission prices typically start at $2,500 USD for smaller works. Original paintings from her collection range from $3,000 to $15,000+ USD depending on the piece. For specific pricing inquiries, contact me@tubaahsan.com or schedule a consultation. Payment plans and international shipping are available.

Tuba Ahsan | Turkish Visual Artist & Oil Painter | Istanbul

"Art has always been my way of connecting with people, of telling stories that words cannot capture—stories of resilience, identity, and the invisible threads that bind us all."

— Tuba Ahsan

The Artist

A Journey of Passion, Purpose & Quiet Determination

International visual artist and fashion designer whose work bridges cultures, honors traditions, and transforms the power of art into tangible humanitarian impact.

Born and raised in Istanbul with humble beginnings, Tuba discovered her passion for art in childhood. That early spark has grown into a remarkable dual career spanning visual arts and fashion design—always guided by her natural inclination toward self-empowerment and helping others, never seeking the spotlight yet consistently earning recognition for her exceptional work.

A devoted wife and mother of two, Tuba has lived across continents—from Ankara and Istanbul in Türkiye, to Cape Town, South Africa, to Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Dallas and Houston, Texas. Each place has enriched her artistic perspective, adding layers of cultural understanding to her work.

With globally renowned series like Rising from the Ashes, and Colors of Hope, her works bridge cultures and inspire dialogue. Known as a remarkably fast learner with an innate design sensibility, she built her reputation through collaborations with prestigious designers including TNJ BBCN in Istanbul—becoming highly popular in the industry while remaining characteristically reluctant to promote herself.

Versatile Expertise

Haute Couture, Modest Fashion, Oil Painting, Art Education & Therapy

Global Perspective

Life experiences spanning 4 countries across 3 continents

Humanitarian Heart

$400K raised, 18+ homes rebuilt for earthquake victims

Industry Recognition

Featured in Harper's Bazaar & Marie Claire Türkiye

Her Story

From Istanbul's Streets to the World's Galleries

A narrative of humble beginnings, creative brilliance, and unwavering dedication to using art as a force for connection and healing

A Child of Istanbul

Born in early 1980s Istanbul, Tuba grew up in a bustling household filled with brothers, cousins, and the warmth of extended family gatherings. Her childhood was marked by humble beginnings but rich experiences—playing in the historic neighborhoods where Byzantine walls met Ottoman minarets.

Boarding School & Self-Discovery

Her years at boarding school cultivated discipline and independence, qualities that would serve her throughout her career. Away from the familiar rhythms of home, she discovered the power of self-reliance and developed an innate drive toward self-empowerment.

Entry into Fashion

After completing her specialized education in fashion design, Tuba entered Istanbul's vibrant textile and fashion industry in 2008. A remarkably fast learner with an intuitive design sensibility, she quickly caught the attention of established designers.

A Global Canvas

Life took Tuba far beyond Türkiye's borders. From Cape Town to Dhaka, from Dallas to Houston—each place enriched her artistic vocabulary. She traveled extensively, attending premier textile fairs and absorbing influences that would later emerge in her distinctive style.

Family & Balance

Through all her professional achievements, Tuba has remained grounded in what matters most. As a wife and mother of two, she has navigated the delicate balance of raising a family across continents while pursuing her creative calling.

Art as Healing

Today, her childhood passion has evolved into something far greater: a systematic method for helping people through charitable initiatives. As co-founder of Birlikte Sanat Society, she has raised nearly $400,000 for earthquake victims and rebuilt 18+ homes.

Life's Path

A Global Journey

From Istanbul's historic streets to galleries worldwide, each chapter has shaped her artistic vision

Istanbul & Ankara, Türkiye

Where It All Began

Born in Istanbul with humble beginnings, Tuba's childhood passion for art blossomed into formal training. Her early years in Türkiye's cultural capitals laid the foundation for her design sensibility and deep appreciation for artisan mastery.

Cape Town, South Africa

African Horizons

Life in Cape Town opened new creative horizons, exposing Tuba to African art traditions, vibrant color palettes, and stories of resilience that would later influence her cultural art series.

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Textile & Tradition

Bangladesh deepened her understanding of textile craftsmanship and modest fashion. Here, she organized the landmark "Rising from the Ashes" exhibition that raised nearly $400,000 for earthquake relief.

Dallas & Houston, Texas, USA

American Chapter

The United States brought new opportunities to share her art with Western audiences, including the acclaimed "Colors of Hope" exhibition in New Jersey that bridged cultures through creativity.

Fashion Design

17+ Years of Design Excellence

From haute couture to modest fashion, creating designs worn by celebrities and distributed across the MENA region

Tuba Ahsan's design philosophy maintains extremely high quality and understated, forward-thinking design, always creating a recognizable sophisticated aesthetic through a narrative approach that bridges cultures and celebrates craftsmanship.

Collections

Bespoke Elegance

Collaborating with renowned designers including TNJ BBCN Istanbul, creating one-of-a-kind pieces for Turkish celebrities, pop stars, and television productions. Featured in Harper's Bazaar and Marie Claire Türkiye.

Photo Shoot / Styling

Global Visual Storytelling

Styling and shooting work carried out across multiple global locations, starting from Cape Town and extending to New York. Creating compelling visual narratives that blend fashion with cultural context.

Backstage

Behind the Scenes

An intimate look at the creative process behind fashion collections and photo shoots, capturing the artistry and meticulous attention to detail that goes into every design.

Silk Scarves

Andalucía Collection

Hand-painted silk scarves featuring architectural landmarks of Seville and Granada. Each piece captures the intricate details of Moorish arches, Islamic geometry, and Mediterranean landscapes in rich earth tones.

Artisan Leather

Handcrafted Bags

Traditional Turkish leather craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Woven details and fringe accents honor centuries-old artisan techniques while creating timeless accessories for the modern wardrobe.

Designer Bags

Everyday Elegance

Elegant everyday accessories designed for the sophisticated professional. Clean lines and premium materials create versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from boardroom to evening occasions.

International Trade Show Presence

PREMIÈRE
VISION

Paris

INTERTEXTILE
SHANGHAI

Shanghai

CANTON
FAIR

Guangzhou

HONG KONG
FASHION WEEK

Hong Kong

TEXTILE
WORLD

Global

Fashion Industry Coverage

Türkiye

Industry Publication

Event Coverage

International Exhibitions

Art Without Borders

Organizing and participating in exhibitions across six countries, bringing cultures together through art and raising awareness for humanitarian causes

2023

Rising from the Ashes

Global Touring Exhibition • 5 Countries • 6 Venues

A groundbreaking humanitarian art initiative personally curated and organized by Tuba Ahsan in collaboration with Birlikte Sanat Society following the devastating February 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquake. Touring through New Jersey (USA), Kuwait City, Doha (Qatar), Milan (Italy), and Dhaka (Bangladesh), this series united artists from multiple countries and raised nearly $400,000. The funds raised from these exhibitions were used to build wooden houses in Dörtyol, Hatay, providing sustainable homes for 18+ families affected by the earthquake. The exhibition demonstrated how art can serve as a powerful force for healing, community rebuilding, and international solidarity.

2024

Voices of Resistance

KL City Art Gallery • Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This exhibition explored themes of defiance and resilience through visual storytelling, organized in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy, Yunus Emre Institute, and Kakiseni. Inaugurated by Turkish Ambassador Emir Salim Yuksel, it was described by The Malaysian Reserve as "a manifestation of hope, unity, strength and resilience." The exhibition also included art therapy programs for refugee and orphan children.

Date

February 5-11, 2024

Partners

Turkish Embassy, Yunus Emre Institute, Kakiseni

Press

The Malaysian Reserve

2023

Rising from the Ashes - Dhaka

Aloki Convention Center • Dhaka, Bangladesh

A five-day bilateral exhibition uniting Turkish and Bangladeshi artists in a powerful display of solidarity. Organized with Beyond Innovations & Technologies Ltd., the exhibition was inaugurated by Turkish Ambassador Ramis Şen. As reported by The Financial Express, it generated nearly $400,000 USD for earthquake relief, funding the construction of 18+ sustainable wooden houses for victims in Türkiye.

Date

September 22-26, 2023

Impact

$400,000 raised, 18+ homes built

Press

Daily Star, Financial Express, Jamuna TV

2023

Rising from the Ashes - Milan

Palazzo Delle Stelline • Milan, Italy

Presented at one of Milan's most prestigious historic venues, this exhibition brought Turkish art and the earthquake relief mission to European audiences. Supported by Invest Türkiye and Turkish Airlines, the Milan edition attracted collectors, art enthusiasts, and media attention, helping to expand the international reach of the humanitarian initiative.

Date

June 2023

Partners

Invest Türkiye, Turkish Airlines

2023

Rising from the Ashes - Kuwait

Boushahri Art Gallery • Kuwait City, Kuwait

Launched in cooperation with the Turkish Embassy, Turkish Airlines, and KARGOIST. The exhibition was inaugurated by Turkish Ambassador Tuba Nur Sonmez and featured prominently in Kuwait Times. The Gulf audience responded warmly, with significant art sales contributing to the earthquake relief fund.

Date

May 22, 2023

Partners

Turkish Embassy, Turkish Airlines, KARGOIST

Press

Kuwait Times

2023

Colors of Hope

IMUR Gallery • Jersey City, New Jersey, USA

Curated by Ivy Sarioglu, featuring works by Cemal Toy, Ruveyda Gormezoglu, Zafer Ors, and Tuba Ahsan. The Jersey City Times described the works as "quietly moving," highlighting "images of the city as an amalgamation of human efforts and desires, imperiled but resilient." This exhibition marked Tuba's American debut and introduced her work to North American collectors.

Date

March-May 2023

Curator

Ivy Sarioglu

Press

Jersey City Times

Selected Works

Collection

Oil paintings exploring themes of cultural heritage, identity, and resilience. Each piece uses traditional glazing techniques for depth and texture, blending abstract forms with symbolic elements.

Cultural Heritage Series

Celebrating women's inner power across different nations and cultures

Africans

Oil on Canvas • 2023 • 75cm × 45cm

Capturing the enduring strength and unity of African heritage. Inspired by oral traditions and community celebrations, the painting presents a moment of togetherness through bold, deep earthen tones that evoke the rich soil of the continent.

Anatolian Dance

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 55cm × 70cm

The rhythmic beauty of Anatolian folk dances translated onto canvas. Dancers in traditional attire appear in fluid motion, their skirts forming arcs that embody joy and celebration of cultural heritage.

Anatolian Wedding

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 75cm × 45cm

Honoring the sacred traditions of Anatolian weddings. Elegantly adorned figures engaged in ritual, with a warm palette of red, gold, and earth tones highlighting the unity of families and communities.

Anatolian Women

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 35cm × 57cm

Portraying the inner strength of Anatolian women—guardians of tradition and resilience. A woman with a steady gaze, balancing tradition and modernity, embodying quiet determination.

Turkoman

Oil on Canvas • 2023 • 70cm × 40cm

Homage to the Turkoman people and their nomadic heritage. Figures in ornate, traditional attire against a richly textured backdrop of earth tones and deep reds that speak to centuries of tradition.

Inca

Oil on Canvas • 2023 • 50cm × 70cm

Infused with geometric and natural symbolism of Inca civilization. Bold forms inspired by Inca architecture balance with organic textures of the Andean landscape, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary expression.

Landscapes & Places

Capturing the essence of iconic locations that bridge cultures and eras

Bosphorus

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 45cm × 70cm

The Bosphorus as both physical and symbolic connector between continents. Shimmering blues and radiant reflections with Istanbul's landmarks in the distance, capturing the eternal dance of East and West.

Istanbul

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 45cm × 70cm

Istanbul as a crossroads of culture and history. The skyline blends with abstract textures, merging architectural grandeur of minarets and domes with the natural beauty of the Golden Horn.

Asian Breeze

Oil on Canvas • 2023 • 75cm × 55cm

Capturing the invisible yet powerful presence of nature. A scene of tranquility through soft, fluid brushwork—gentle greens, blues, and earthy tones that evoke the serene landscapes of Asia.

Rising From the Earth

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 45cm × 70cm

Symbolizing rebirth and renewal. Figures emerge from the earth surrounded by vibrant greenery, their upward movement suggesting both struggle and hope—a tribute to resilience after disaster.

Resilience & Connection

Exploring themes of human aspiration and the invisible bonds that unite us

To Reach

Oil on Canvas • 2022 • 45cm × 70cm

The enduring human desire for aspiration and transcendence. Figures reach upward, colors shifting from deep blues to lighter celestial hues, embodying the universal quest for meaning.

Travelers

Oil on Canvas • 2022 • 45cm × 35cm

Migration and movement—the shared journey of those who travel physically or spiritually. Elongated forms blend with environment in rich reds and purples, suggesting both displacement and belonging.

Nexus

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 60cm × 60cm

Visualizing the intricate networks that bind people and ideas. Interwoven lines symbolize relationships, bold colors emphasizing the tension and integration of human connection.

Encounter

Oil on Canvas • 2023 • 35cm × 50cm

A transformative moment of meeting. Abstract forms converge amidst dramatic reds, purples, and golds, symbolizing both conflict and harmony in human relationships.

Intersection

Oil on Canvas • 2024 • 50cm × 70cm

A meditation on life's intersections—where paths cross and new possibilities arise. Sharp and curved lines overlap in rhythmic patterns, suggesting the complexity of human experience.

Making a Difference

Art for Humanity

Transforming her childhood passion into a powerful force for charitable change that has touched countless lives across six continents

$400K

Raised Through Art Sales

18+

Homes Built for Victims

Countries Reached

100s

Children in Art Therapy

Where Passion Meets Purpose

With her characteristic humility and reluctance to boast, Tuba has quietly organized some of the most impactful charitable art initiatives in recent years. What began as a childhood love for painting has evolved into a systematic method for helping people through art.

As co-founder of Birlikte Sanat (Together for Art) Society, she has channeled her creative talents toward causes that matter—rebuilding lives shattered by the devastating February 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquake and providing art therapy for refugee and orphan children in Malaysia.

Rising from the Ashes global exhibition series across 5 countries

18+ sustainable wooden homes built for earthquake victims in Türkiye

Art therapy programs for refugee and orphan children in Malaysia

Cultural diplomacy initiatives through Turkish embassy partnerships worldwide

Co-founder of Birlikte Sanat (Together for Art) Society

In the Media

Press & Recognition

International coverage highlighting artistic achievements and humanitarian contributions

International News Coverage

Kuwait Times

"Art exhibition seeks to help Türkiye quake victims 'rise from the ashes'"

May 23, 2023 • By Majd Othman

Feature Interview

An in-depth feature interview covering the Rising from the Ashes exhibition at Boushahri Art Gallery in Kuwait City. The article explores Tuba Ahsan's motivation to use art as a vehicle for humanitarian relief following the devastating February 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquake.

Read the Press Coverage →

The Financial Express (Bangladesh)

"'Rising from the Ashes Exhibition 2023' commences in Dhaka"

September 22, 2023

News Coverage

Comprehensive coverage of the bilateral exhibition at Aloki Convention Center, noting the exhibition has "generated nearly US $0.4 million from exhibitions worldwide and has already led to the construction of 18 houses" for earthquake victims.

Read the Press Coverage →

The Daily Star (Bangladesh)

"Rising From the Ashes: Turkish Embassy initiates diplomatic outreach through art"

September 19, 2023

Feature Article

Feature on how the Turkish Embassy in Bangladesh used art as a diplomatic bridge between Turkish and Bangladeshi artists. The article highlights the cultural diplomacy aspect of the exhibition.

Read the Press Coverage →

Dhaka Tribune (Bangladesh)

"Turkish Embassy organizes art exhibition to assist earthquake victims"

September 2023

News Coverage

Coverage of the diplomatic initiative by the Turkish Embassy in Dhaka, organizing an art exhibition to support earthquake victims through cultural collaboration between Turkish and Bangladeshi artists.

Read the Press Coverage →

Daily Sabah

"Cemal Toy's art tool for social impact, global solidarity"

2023

Feature Article

Feature article highlighting how art serves as a powerful tool for social impact and international solidarity through humanitarian initiatives and charitable exhibitions.

Read the Feature Article →

International Coverage

"Art Exhibition and Art Therapy in Kuala Lumpur"

February 2024

Event Coverage

Coverage of the Voices of Resistance exhibition and art therapy programs conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, organized in collaboration with the Turkish Embassy, Yunus Emre Institute, and Kakiseni.

International Coverage

"Rising from The Ashes 2023 - Milan, Italy Coverage"

June 2023

Event Coverage

Coverage of the Rising from the Ashes exhibition at Palazzo Delle Stelline in Milan, Italy. The exhibition brought Turkish art and the earthquake relief mission to European audiences.

Art Reviews & Criticism

Jersey City Times

"Art Against Disaster: 'Colors of Hope' at IMUR"

April 7, 2023 • By Tris McCall

Exhibition Review

A thoughtful critical review describing the exhibition as "quietly moving" with "images of the city as an amalgamation of human efforts and desires, imperiled but resilient."

Read the Full Article →

Dhaka Tribune

"Rising from the Ashes: Tuba's collaboration for a charitable cause"

September 29, 2023

Artist Profile

A personal profile highlighting Tuba Ahsan's journey from Istanbul to international acclaim, focusing on her collaborative approach to organizing charitable art initiatives.

Read the Full Article →

Broadcast & Video Coverage

Jamuna Television (Bangladesh)

Rising from the Ashes Exhibition Coverage

September 2023

TV News Coverage

Television news coverage of the Rising from the Ashes exhibition in Dhaka, featuring interviews with artists and the opening ceremony attended by Turkish Ambassador Ramis Şen.

▶ Watch on YouTube

Tuba AhsanInternational Artist from Istanbul

A Journey of Passion, Purpose & Quiet Determination

Versatile Expertise

Global Perspective

Humanitarian Heart

Industry Recognition

From Istanbul's Streets to the World's Galleries

A Child of Istanbul

Boarding School & Self-Discovery

Entry into Fashion

A Global Canvas

Family & Balance

Art as Healing

A Global Journey

Where It All Began

African Horizons

Textile & Tradition

American Chapter

17+ Years of Design Excellence

Bespoke Elegance

Global Visual Storytelling

Behind the Scenes

Andalucía Collection

Handcrafted Bags

Everyday Elegance

Art Without Borders

Rising from the Ashes

Voices of Resistance

Rising from the Ashes - Dhaka

Rising from the Ashes - Milan

Rising from the Ashes - Kuwait

Colors of Hope

Collection

Cultural Heritage Series

Africans

Anatolian Dance

Anatolian Wedding

Anatolian Women

Turkoman

Inca

Landscapes & Places

Bosphorus

Istanbul

Asian Breeze

Rising From the Earth

Resilience & Connection

To Reach

Travelers

Nexus

Encounter

Intersection

Art for Humanity

Where Passion Meets Purpose

Press & Recognition

International News Coverage

"Art exhibition seeks to help Türkiye quake victims 'rise from the ashes'"

"'Rising from the Ashes Exhibition 2023' commences in Dhaka"

"Rising From the Ashes: Turkish Embassy initiates diplomatic outreach through art"

"Turkish Embassy organizes art exhibition to assist earthquake victims"

"Cemal Toy's art tool for social impact, global solidarity"

"Art Exhibition and Art Therapy in Kuala Lumpur"

"Rising from The Ashes 2023 - Milan, Italy Coverage"

Art Reviews & Criticism

"Art Against Disaster: 'Colors of Hope' at IMUR"

"Rising from the Ashes: Tuba's collaboration for a charitable cause"

Broadcast & Video Coverage

Rising from the Ashes Exhibition Coverage

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