Onur Sarıal (b. 1985) is a contemporary figurative artist specializing in high-contrast charcoal realism and Tenebrism. Born and raised in Istanbul, Sarıal’s artistic journey is rooted in a deep exploration of the human psyche, captured through the dramatic interplay of...
Read MoreOnur Sarıal (b. 1985) is a contemporary figurative artist specializing in high-contrast charcoal realism and Tenebrism. Born and raised in Istanbul, Sarıal’s artistic journey is rooted in a deep exploration of the human psyche, captured through the dramatic interplay of light and absolute darkness.
His work is characterized by a meticulous technical discipline, utilizing traditional tools such as Kolinsky sable brushes and compressed charcoal to achieve hyperrealistic textures and profound emotional depth. Often drawing inspiration from Stoic philosophy and the chiaroscuro masters, Sarıal focuses on the "silent dialogue" between the subject and the observer, stripping away contextual distractions to confront the visceral reality of the human condition.
Sarıal’s mastery has gained significant international recognition. His work "Mirada" was selected for exhibition at the MEAM (European Museum of Modern Art) in Barcelona and La Zona Gallery in Madrid. Furthermore, he is a featured artist in the 16th edition of the Leonardo International Guide and a winner in prestigious national competitions such as the İş Bankası art selections. Currently living and working in Istanbul, Onur Sarıal continues to push the boundaries of charcoal as a medium for modern existential inquiry.
