In residence: Layla Önlen
04.03.2025
Layla Önlen is in residence at C-TAKT to work on Navelband, an experimental artistic investigation into the relationship between the individual and the collective. In her work, she investigates how personal stories translate into shared experiences. Her fascination with textiles and rituals is expressed in the red ribbon, a recurring element that both connects and limits.
The seed for this fascination was planted in an autobiographical moment: as a bride, a red ribbon was tied around her waist three times, a ritual full of symbolism. Later, this ribbon grew into a supporting symbol in her performances, installations and the work Bismillah.
With Navelband, she intuitively and multidisciplinarily explores how ribbons can create new forms of connection – individually and in groups, within various contexts. Her practice starts from the belief that art makes transformation possible and invites encounter and dialogue.
