Watercolor World of Erkin Yilmaz

Erkin Yilmaz is a Türkish artist known for his amazing watercolor paintings. Harmonious, peaceful, and joyful – his artworks will make you fall in love with the sea straight away. Let’s find out more about the life and unique artistic vision of this extremely talented person.

How did you come to the decision of becoming an artist? What is the story?

I grew up in Mersin, Türkiye. I consider it to be luck that I was surrounded by the serene beauty of the sea. Absolutely loved observing the vast sky, and elegant sailboats gliding across the water. These elements weren’t just scenery—they became part of me. I’ve spent 26 years working with the Turkish Defense Ministry. Nevertheless, my passion for art always lingered in the background. I’d often sketch or paint during quiet moments as if I were preserving a piece of nature’s tranquility for myself.

Retiring gave me the chance to fully embrace this lifelong love. It wasn’t a sudden decision. More like following a path that was always there, waiting for me to walk it. Painting feels like coming home—it’s how I express emotions that words can’t quite capture. Every brushstroke reminds me of those moments by the sea in my childhood. So this journey feels both personal and inevitable.

How does your work represent your core values?

I’d say my art is a reflection of who I am—my values, my perspective, my connection to the world. Harmony and authenticity are fundamental for me. And they naturally find their way into my paintings. The unpredictability of watercolor mirrors life: it’s fluid, full of surprises, and sometimes messy, but it always has its own kind of beauty.

I capture the balance of nature—the calm and chaos of the sea, the open sky, and the boats navigating their own journeys. Freedom and curiosity are also themes I care about deeply. They show up in the way I approach each piece. I explore new techniques or let the paint unveil unexpected directions.

At its heart, my art is about sharing something genuine. It invites viewers to see the world as I do. And maybe — to find their own moments of connection with nature’s beauty.

What is your favorite plot to work on? What inspires you?

For me, the sea is endlessly inspiring—it’s always changing, always alive. Add a sailboat or two,—and you’ve got a story about freedom, adventure, and resilience. I especially love painting scenes from the western coast of Türkiye. The sunsets at Davutlar, Kuşadası, and Yalıkavak are unforgettable. Davutlar holds a special place in my heart. There’s a café there—Arya Cafe—where I watch the sunset often. It’s magical. I sit with my camera, capturing photos to use later in my work.

There’s something poetic about sailboats, too—the way they navigate the vastness of the sea. It’s a delicate balance between human ingenuity and nature’s power. Whether it’s a calm evening or a stormy day, these moments inspire me to transfer what I feel onto paper. My goal is to bring that sense of wonder and adventure into my paintings, so viewers can experience it too.

How to understand your artwork better? Give a reader some tips

To connect with my art, I’d suggest starting with an open heart and letting your imagination guide you. Watercolor is a wonderfully spontaneous medium. Every painting has an energy of its own—something a little unplanned, a little unpredictable.

Look closely at the details: the interplay of colors, the movement in the brushstrokes, and the way the light shapes the scene. Many of my works feature the sea, sky, and sailboats—familiar elements that evoke different feelings for everyone. Let them bring up your own memories or emotions.

Most importantly, take your time. Art isn’t about rushing to understand. It’s about feeling something, whatever that may be. Whether it’s a sense of calmness, nostalgia, or even a bit of longing, — your interpretation is just as valid as mine. The shared experience is what makes art so special.

What are you proud of in terms of your work?

I’m proud of how my paintings resonate with people. It’s deeply rewarding when someone connects with my artwork, says "Erkin, this is a masterpiece”. And feels something—joy, peace, or even a bit of nostalgia. Winning recognition, like the ‘Best Painting of the Week’ award for Silent Waters, Sailboat Repose, was an incredible moment for me.

But beyond awards, I’m proud of the journey itself. Each painting represents hours of experimenting, learning, and pushing myself to grow. It’s not always easy—there are plenty of pieces that don’t turn out the way I hoped—but that’s part of the process.

I also value the connections I’ve built with art lovers and other artists around the world. Hearing their thoughts and stories adds so much depth to my experience. Most of all, I’m proud of staying true to my vision and sharing my love for the sea, sky, and sailboats through my art.

Name other artists that inspire you most

Winslow Homer has always been a source of inspiration for me. The way he captures the raw energy of the ocean and humanity's relationship with it is remarkable—it’s almost as if you can hear the waves and feel the sea breeze in his work. J.M.W. Turner’s ability to create atmosphere and evoke emotion through light and color is equally awe-inspiring. His paintings convey the fleeting beauty of nature in a way that feels both grand and deeply personal. It is something I also strive to depict in my own art.

Steve Hanks, on the other hand, inspires me with his incredible attention to detail and his gift for storytelling. His paintings invite you into intimate, quiet moments that feel timeless. From Türkiye, I feel a similar admiration for Rukiye Garip’s works—they have a unique perspective and emotional depth. It resonates with me deeply.

Each of these artists reminds me of the endless possibilities in art. Their distinct voices encourage me to explore, take risks, and always stay true to my vision.

What are your future goals?

Looking ahead, I want to keep evolving as an artist. There’s so much to learn. So many techniques to refine. One of my dreams is to exhibit my work in galleries worldwide, sharing the beauty of the sea and sailboats with new audiences.

I also hope to teach—whether through professional workshops or online platforms—so I can pass on what I’ve learned and inspire others to explore watercolor. I’ve met so many wonderful people through art, and I’d love to continue building those connections, both locally and internationally.