Art at Değirmen 81
Shay Ceramics
The Studio of Şeyda Karakaya
At the heart of Değirmen 81 lies a quiet devotion to art and craft. Here, on the grounds of the property, ceramics artist Ms. Şeyda Karakaya, the owner of Değirmen 81, keeps her working studio, where earth, water and fire are slowly persuaded into form.
Working under her brand Shay Ceramics, Şeyda shapes pieces that carry the unhurried spirit of the place itself: vessels, objects and works that feel at once contemporary and timeless, each one bearing the subtle imprint of the hand that made it. No two pieces are alike, and that is precisely the point. In an age of the identical, Shay Ceramics is an invitation to live with objects that hold a story.
Her works are woven throughout Değirmen 81, and they are in good company. Alongside Shay Ceramics, the property is home to a carefully gathered collection of works by other artists, so that a walk through the grounds becomes a quiet encounter with art at every turn. You will find these pieces resting on a windowsill, gathered on a table, catching the light in a quiet corner — not displayed so much as inhabiting the property, the way art should. Guests who wish to take a piece of Shay Ceramics home will also find the collection available at our sister property, No:81 Hotel.
The Studio Experience
Feel the clay turn beneath your hands
Beyond her own practice, Şeyda opens the doors of her studio to those who wish to feel clay turn beneath their own hands. She offers private sessions for an intimate, personal introduction to the craft, as well as group classes, a memorable way to share an afternoon with friends, family or colleagues, surrounded by the calm of Değirmen 81.
No prior experience is needed; only curiosity, and a willingness to slow down.
For private and group classes, please get in touch with us at infodegirmen81.net.